Removable Liners for Waste Sorting System

ABSTRACT

A liner for use in a waste sorting and disposal system is configured for placement in a container is provided. The liner includes an internal space and an opening that provides access to that internal space. In some embodiments, the liner may also include a machine-readable identification key that is configured to identify a type of waste that the liner may receive. In some embodiments, the machine-readable key is optical, color-coded, alphanumeric or graphical. The liner can include one or more closure members to allow a user to securely seal the liner when it is removed from the container. In some embodiments, the liner can include a flange, lip, hook or other protrusion to secure its position relative to a container.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/888,269, filed Feb. 5, 2007 and U.S. Provisional Application No.60/888,266, filed Feb. 5, 2007, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/777,243, filed Jul. 12, 2007, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/347,823, filed Feb.3, 2006, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,275,645 which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/945,223,filed Sep. 20, 2004, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,119,689, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/504,170, filed Sep. 19,2003 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/589,118, filed Jul. 19,2004; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/777,243, identified above,also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/679,187,filed May 9, 2005, U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/712,256, filedAug. 29, 2005, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/742,212, filedDec. 2, 2005, all herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates in general to the field of waste disposal systems,and in particular to removable liners for use in medical waste sortingand disposal systems.

2. Description of the Related Art

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces the ResourceConservation & Recovery Act (RCRA) which was enacted in 1976 in order tocontrol the disposal of harmful or hazardous waste materials. There arecurrently over 100,000 drugs commercially available in the UnitedStates, of which about 14,000 are considered hazardous by RCRArequirements. A typical medium size hospital utilizes thousands ofdifferent drugs in a year of which hundreds are considered hazardous.The EPA is increasingly enforcing hospitals' compliance with the RCRArequirements because it has been shown in several studies that the 72million pounds of pharmaceutical waste generated each year by hospitalsand individuals is contributing to the pollution of groundwater andendocrine system damage in humans and other species. In addition, manyorganizations including Hospital for a Healthy Environment (H2E) andJoint Council for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) arepressing hospitals to be more environmentally friendly. In view of thesechanges, hospitals are increasing efforts to audit their own compliancewith the laws. As a result, these hospitals are becoming more aware ofthe difficulty of sorting the numerous pharmaceutical waste streams thatthe EPA, Department of Transportation (DOT), Drug EnforcementAdministration (DEA), and some states require.

More than 3.2 million tons of medical waste is generated by hospitals,medical clinics and pharmaceutical manufacturers each year. Half of thiswaste is considered infectious. Most of the infectious waste was treatedin over 2400 incinerators throughout the country, until 1998 when theEPA began to enforce tough environmental emission laws that have reducedthe number of incinerators to just over a hundred nationwide. Now muchof the infectious waste is treated by alternative technologies such asautoclaves and chemical processors. There is very little choice forhospitals because of the upfront cost and large footprint of theprocessing equipment. Although many companies have offered differentkinds of equipment, the prices vary from a few hundred thousand dollarsfor smaller units to a few million for large units. Because of the longcycling times to decontaminate the waste, the equipment typically isvery large in order to provide acceptable throughput. There are alsoseveral companies that provide a service to hospitals by utilizingchemical processors mounted on trucks. They go to a facility anddecontaminate the infectious waste, allowing the treated waste to behauled to a local landfill. There are concerns that this technology maynot completely treat the waste in all circumstances and the chemicalresidue left after processing may remain an ecological issue.

Increasingly, hospitals are required to comply with the recent andprojected enforcement of federal and state hazardous pharmaceuticalwaste regulations. Currently, clinicians must manually sortpharmaceutical waste streams into different colored containers forproper disposal of the separate waste streams. A hospital formulary maycontain an average of 4000 different pharmaceuticals. As many as1,000,000 spent pharmaceuticals are sorted each year in a typicalhospital. It is often not clear to a clinician which pharmaceuticals orwaste materials are hazardous simply by looking at the container. Suchconfusion may lead to clinicians throwing hazardous drugs innon-hazardous containers such as sharps containers, infectious wastebags, non-hazardous pharmaceutical containers or simply down the drain.Clinicians are consumed with patient care and patient safety; thus,manually sorting of pharmaceuticals is not a priority.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There remains a need for a system for allowing clinicians to more easilysort medical waste items for appropriate disposal. There also remains aneed for an automated system of waste disposal that encourages andfacilitates hospital compliance with the relevant federal and stateregulations.

Several embodiments of the present application describe systems anddevices to sort and process infectious and pharmaceutical waste streams.Embodiments of a medical waste sorting system advantageously provide alabor savings for doctors, nurses and other clinicians by taking thebulk of the decision making associated with sorting medical waste awayfrom the clinician. In one embodiment, a medical waste sorting system isprovided, which will help clinicians conveniently comply with the recentand projected enforcement of federal and state hazardous waste laws. Insome embodiments, the system can be configured to scan a bar code, RFIDtag, or other system for identifying a spent drug. The spent drug canthen be classified into an appropriate waste category, and a door can beautomatically opened to provide access to a unique waste container forconvenient disposal of the drug in compliance with applicableregulations.

In addition to the need for medical and pharmaceutical waste sorting,there exists a need to improve areas of water quality analysis andworkplace safety. These areas include sampling water quality throughoutthe hospital to pinpoint inappropriate dumping of hazardous materialsdown the drain and improved programs that reduce hospital workerexposure to hazardous materials in the workplace.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a system and method forsorting waste using one or more containers. These containers can be madeof several materials, including resilient material, flexible material,durable reusable material, lightweight material that can be reusable ordisposable, or liner-type material that resembles a pliable bag. In someembodiments, the container is a liner. In other embodiments, thecontainer comprises a liner and an enclosure (such as a canister orother receptacle). Thus, the term container and liner can be usedinterchangeably.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a liner for use in a wastesorting system. The liner comprises a plurality of walls that define aninternal space and an opening configured to provide access to theinternal space. The liner comprises a machine-readable identificationkey that is configured to identify a type of waste that the liner canreceive. The liner is configured for removable placement within aninterior cavity of a container.

In some embodiments, the liner has substantially the same shape and/orsize as a container or enclosure into which the liner is configured tobe placed. In one embodiment, the liner is oversized with respect to theenclosure. In another embodiment, the liner is smaller than theenclosure. In one embodiment, the shape of the liner and the enclosureare different (e.g., a round canister and a square liner). In someembodiments, the liner and the enclosure are the same color or arepatterned in a similar fashion. In other embodiments, the linercomprises one or more color codes configured to correspond to at leastone waste category. In yet other embodiments, the liner comprises one ormore bar codes, RFID tags, or other identifiers, and combinationsthereof.

In one embodiment, at least one of the walls of the liner comprises aprotrusion member, such as a flange, that is configured to contact atleast a portion of a container.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the liner is translucent ortransparent. In one embodiment, the liner comprises a viewing windowconfigured to permit a user to visually determine the liner contents. Inother embodiments, the liner is opaque.

In some embodiments, the liner comprises a polymeric material. In oneembodiment, the liner is flexible. In other embodiments, the liner isrigid. In some embodiments, the liner has variable regions offlexibility and rigidity. In one embodiment, the liner is expandable. Inseveral embodiment, the liner comprises polypropylene and has athickness of about 2 to 6 mil. In other embodiments, the liner comprisespolyethylene.

In one embodiment, the liner comprises more than two layers. In oneembodiment, the liner comprises an outer layer that is reusuable and aninner layer that is disposable.

In one embodiment, the liner is configured to interface with a levelsensor. In some embodiments, the level sensor determines the amount(e.g., weight, height, and/or volume, etc.) of waste or other contentscontained within the liner. In one embodiment, one or more level sensorsare coupled to or located on the liner. In another embodiment, one ormore level sensors are coupled to or located on the container or onanother portion of the waste sorting system.

In one embodiment of the invention, a liner comprising one or moremachine-readable identification keys that identify a type of waste thatthe liner can receive is provided. The machine-readable key can be, forexample, optically-readable. In one embodiment, the machine-readable keycomprises one or more colors that corresponds to at least one type ofwaste. In some embodiments, the machine-readable key is alphanumericand/or graphical. In one embodiment, the machine-readable key comprisesan RFID tag.

In one embodiment, the liner comprises a seal or sealing memberconfigured to maintain the opening of the liner in a closed position.The sealing member can include, for example, at least one adhesivestrip.

In one embodiment of the invention, a disposable liner for use in awaste disposal system is provided. The liner comprises means tointerface with a container positioned within the disposal system. Theliner also comprises means for indicating a liner type to the disposalsystem. The liner type corresponds to a waste category or type. Themeans to interface with the container and/or the means for indicating aliner type to the disposal system includes, but is not limited to,structures such as grooves, keys, sensors, and other structures asdescribed herein, and structural and functional equivalents thereof.

In one embodiment, a waste sorting system comprising liners within wastereceptacles is provided. The liners comprise an interface or key thatinteracts with the receptacle, thereby permitting a liner-receptaclematch. The receptacles comprise an interface or key that interacts witha panel on the waste sorting system, thereby providing areceptacle-system match. The interface or key on the liner can be thesame or different than that on the receptacle.

In one embodiment of the invention, a method of sorting waste isprovided. The method comprises receiving at least one liner in a wastecontainer, and reading an identification key on the liner. Theidentification key defines a category of waste items that are acceptablefor placement in the liner. The method further comprises providingaccess to an interior of the liner if it is determined that a waste itembelongs to a category defined by the identification key. In someembodiments, the method comprises scanning a waste item and determiningin which container the waste item belongs. Optionally, the methodfurther comprises restricting access to the interior of the liner aftersaid waste item is deposited into said liner. For example, thereceptacle may comprise a lid that is locked after the waste item isdeposited. This is particularly advantageous for the disposal of medical(e.g., pharmaceutical) waste, which may be governed by laws that requirerestricted access after disposal.

In some embodiments, the method of sorting waste comprises providing aliner that comprises one or more of the following: RFID tag,optically-readable key, color, alphanumeric pattern, and graphicalpattern. An identification key reader that can read same is alsoprovided in some embodiments. The identification key may be coupled to,integral with, or otherwise associated with the liner. Theidentification key reader may be coupled to, integral with, or otherwiseassociated with the receptacle (or container).

In one embodiment, the method of sorting waste comprise determiningwhether the waste item belongs to a waste category by comparinginformation obtained from the barcode to regulations governing thedisposal of medical waste. Such regulations (including laws, rules, orguidelines) may be found in a database.

In another embodiment of the invention, a method of protecting acontainer positioned within a waste disposal system is provided. Themethod comprises providing a liner in a container, reading anidentification key on the liner, providing access to an interior of theliner for receipt of a waste item, and removing the liner from thecontainer when a specified level, amount, volume and/or weight of itemshas been attained in the liner. The identification key defines acategory of items that are acceptable for placement in the liner.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a waste system comprising aplurality of compartments (or containers), each compartment configuredto receive a removable liner. A movable lid that is movable to an openposition and a closed position is also provided, and may be associatedwith the compartments, either individually or collectively. The systemmay also include a plurality of removable liners configured to be placedwithin the compartments, wherein each of the removable liners has anopening to receive waste and comprises a machine readable key thatcorresponds to a waste category. Machine readable keys include machinereadable identifiers, machine readable codes, machine readableidentifications keys, and those terms can be used interchangeably. Acontrol system configured to determine the waste category associatedwith the liner based on said machine readable key is also provided. Thesystem may further comprise a waste item identification deviceconfigured to receive information regarding a waste item. The controlsystem is configured to assign the waste item to a waste category basedon the information obtained from the waste item identification device.The control system is also configured to identify the appropriatecompartment for receiving the waste item by associating the wastecategory of the waste item with the waste category of the liner in theappropriate compartment. Optionally, the system is configured to allowthe movable lid associated with the appropriate compartment to move tothe open position. The lid can then be manually or automatically closed.

In yet another embodiment, a method of sorting waste in a linedcontainer system is provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises:providing a first and second container, wherein the first containercomprises a first container interface, and wherein the second containercomprises a second container interface; providing a first and secondliner, wherein the first liner comprises a first liner interface, andwherein the second liner comprises a second liner interface; wherein thefirst liner interface is operable to pair with the first containerinterface but not with the second container interface; wherein thesecond liner interface is operable to pair with the second containerinterface but not with the first container interface; determining thatthe first liner is properly placed within the first container; receivinginformation regarding a waste item to be discarded; and indicating thatthe first container is the appropriate container for disposal of thewaste item if the first liner is properly placed within the firstcontainer.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a method of using adisposable liner within a waste receptacle. In one aspect, the methodcomprises providing a liner, wherein the liner comprises anidentification key defining a category of waste items that is acceptablefor placement in the liner. A waste receptacle adapted to contain saidliner is also provided. The receptacle comprises a reader that isadapted to read the identification key of the liner. After reading thekey, the waste receptacle adopts the waste category of the liner. Themethod, in some embodiments, further comprises reading a barcode on aspecific waste item; determining whether the waste item belongs to thewaste category associated with the waste receptacle; and providingaccess to the receptacle and the interior of the liner if it isdetermined that the waste item belongs to the waste category associatedwith the waste receptacle.

In a preferred embodiment, the system and method comprises a pluralityof containers associated with a plurality of waste categories, whereinat least one of the containers is configured to restrict access to theinternal portion of the container when the container is open. The systemand method may also include a waste item identification deviceconfigured to determine a qualitative parameter of an item of waste, anda database comprising waste item classification information. The systemand method may also include a control system programmed to compare thequalitative parameter of the item to information contained in thedatabase, and assign the item to a waste category. The system and method(e.g., the control system in one embodiment) can be further configuredto identify at least one of the containers based on the waste category.

In one embodiment, the container prevents unauthorized personnel fromaccessing the waste item once the item has been deposited into thecontainer, thereby restricting access to the internal contents of thatcontainer.

In one embodiment, at least one of the containers comprises a lid. Inone embodiment, one of the containers comprises a lid. In anotherembodiment, all of the containers comprise lids. In yet anotherembodiment, some of the containers comprise lids. In a furtherembodiment, one lid is used to cover two or more containers. In oneembodiment, the system comprises one or more lids, wherein the lid isformed integrally with the container.

The lid may comprise a V-shaped cross-section and circular outer edges.A “V-shaped cross-section” as used herein shall be given its ordinarymeaning and shall also include substantially V-shaped configurations. Inone embodiment, the V-shaped lid comprises an angle of about 135degrees. Shapes other than “V” may also be used. In some embodiments,the angle is greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees. In oneembodiment, the V-shaped lid (or similar shaped lid, such as a U-shapeor L-shape, or T-shape) has an angle that is about 120, 125, 130, 135,140, 145, or 150 degrees.

In one embodiment, at least one of the containers comprises a shield. Inone embodiment, the shield acts in concert with the lid to physicallyrestrict access to the inside of the container. In one embodiment, theshield cooperatively moves with the lid. In one embodiment, the shieldis positioned at one end of the lid. The shield may be positioned at theend of the lid, at the center of the lid, or positioned somewhere inbetween. The shield may be independent from the lid and located atanother location, e.g., coupled to the container or elsewhere on thesystem.

In one embodiment, the system comprises a latch assembly. In oneembodiment, the latch assembly is coupled to the container and/or thelid. The latch assembly can cause the lid to open and/or close.

In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste based onprimary and alternate disposal strategies is disclosed. In a preferredembodiment, the system and method comprises a plurality of containersassociated with a plurality of waste categories. The system and methodmay also comprise a waste item identification device configured todetermine a qualitative parameter of a waste item. In one embodiment,the system also comprises a database comprising waste itemclassification information. The system and method may also comprise acontrol system programmed to compare the qualitative parameter of thewaste item to information contained in the database, assign the wasteitem to a waste category, determine the preferred container in which thewaste item should be placed based on the assigned waste category,determine if said preferred container is capable of accepting the wasteitem and direct a user to perform an alternative disposal action if thepreferred container is not capable of accepting the waste item.

In one embodiment, the user is directed to dispose of the waste item inan alternative waste container. In a further embodiment, the user isdirected to dispose of the waste item in a waste container located inanother room. In yet another embodiment, the user is directed to disposeof the waste item in a waste container located on another floor.

In one embodiment, the user is directed to dispose of the waste item ina bulk container. In a further embodiment, the user does not have accessto the internal contents of the containers.

In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste using a manualinput system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system and methodcomprises a plurality of container compartments, with each containercompartment configured to receive a removable container. The system mayalso comprise a plurality of removable containers, wherein eachremovable container comprises an opening and a movable lid. In anotherembodiment, the removable containers are configured to be placed withinthe container compartments, wherein each of the removable containers isassociated with at least one of a plurality of waste categories. In oneembodiment, the movable lid is movable to an open position and/or acovered position. The system may comprise a manual input system forentering additional information regarding the waste item. The system andmethod may also comprise a waste item identification device configuredto read a barcode on an item of waste. The system and method may furthercomprise a database comprising waste item classification informationderived from rules and regulations affecting the disposal of the wasteitem. In yet another embodiment, a control system configured to compareinformation obtained from the barcode to information contained in thedatabase is provided. The control system may further configured toassign the item to at least one waste category, to identify at least oneof the removable containers based on the waste category, to allow themovable lid of the identified removable container to move to the openposition and/or to lock the movable lid in the covered position when thecontrol system determines that the removable container is full.

In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of containersassociated with a plurality of waste categories and a waste itemidentification device is configured to determine a qualitative parameterof an item of waste. The system may also comprise a manual input systemfor entering additional information regarding the waste item. In afurther embodiment, the system includes a database comprising waste itemclassification information. In one embodiment, the system may alsocomprise a control system programmed to compare the qualitativeparameter of the item to information contained in the database, andassign the item to a waste category based on the manually enteredadditional information and the waste item classification information. Inyet another embodiment, the control system may be configured to identifyat least one of the containers based on the waste category.

In one embodiment, the control system is further configured to notify auser of the assigned waste category. In another embodiment, the controlsystem is configured to notify a user of the assigned waste category byindicating an appropriate container into which the item should bedeposited. In one embodiment, the control system may be configured toindicate the appropriate container by opening a door. In otherembodiments, the control system may be configured to indicate theappropriate container by illuminating a light. In yet other embodiments,the control system may be configured to indicate the appropriatecontainer by both opening a door and illuminating a light. In oneembodiment, the control system may be configured to indicate theappropriate container by indicating the necessary information on a fixedand/or handheld display.

In some embodiments, the manual input system comprises a display and akeyboard having at least one button. In one embodiment, the keyboardcomprises two buttons. In another embodiment, the keyboard comprisesfour buttons. In one embodiment, the keyboard is an alphanumerickeyboard, permitting the user to enter more detailed information.

In one embodiment, the manual input system comprises one or more softkeys on a display. In one embodiment, the display is a low cost display.In another embodiment, the manual input system queries the user forinformation regarding the waste item. In some embodiments, the systemqueries the user visually and/or audibly. In some embodiments, at leastone button and/or soft key includes a graphical description. In otherembodiments, the manually entered additional information is related tothe volume of remaining contents in a waste item. In yet otherembodiments, the manually entered additional information is whether thewaste item is a sharps. In further embodiments, the manually enteredadditional information is related to both the volume of remainingcontents in a waste item and whether the waste item is a sharps. In oneembodiment, the system comprises keys, buttons, or other means to inputwhether or not the waste is sharps or not sharps, empty or not empty. Inanother embodiment, the system is designed to accept only toxicpharmaceuticals and reject sharps. For example, the system may bedesigned to inform a user presenting sharps to dispose the sharpselsewhere.

In some embodiments, the waste item identification device is at leastpartially available or situated on a handheld electronic device. In oneembodiment, the additional information is manually entered into ahandheld electronic device. In a further embodiment, access to theinternal contents of the containers is restricted.

In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste using differentmodes of operation is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the systemcomprises a plurality of container compartments, each containercompartment configured to receive a removable container. A plurality ofremovable containers may also be provided, wherein each removablecontainer comprises an opening and a movable lid. In one embodiment, theremovable containers are configured to be placed within the containercompartments, wherein each removable container is associated with atleast one waste category. In one embodiment, the movable lid is movableto an open position and/or a covered position. The system and method maybe further configured to allow a user to select a mode of operation. Inone embodiment, a waste item identification device is configured to reada barcode on an item of waste. In a further embodiment, a databasecomprising waste item classification information derived from rules andregulations affecting the disposal of waste items is provided. Inanother embodiment, a control system is configured to compareinformation obtained from the barcode to information contained in thedatabase and to assign the item to a waste category. In anotherembodiment, the control system is further configured to identify one ormore removable containers based on the waste category. In a preferredembodiment, the control system is also configured to allow the movablelid of the identified removable container to move to the open positionand to lock the movable lid in the covered position when the controlsystem determines that the container is full.

In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of containersassociated with a plurality of waste categories, and a waste itemidentification device configured to determine a qualitative parameter ofan item of waste. In one embodiment, a database comprising waste itemclassification information may be provided. In one embodiment at leastone mode of operation may be selected by a user. In another embodiment,a control system is programmed to compare said qualitative parameter ofthe item to information contained in the database and to assign the itemto a waste category according to the selected mode of operation. In apreferred embodiment, the control system is further configured toidentify at least one of the containers based on the waste category.

In some embodiments, the mode of operation differentiates betweeneconomic and environmental benefits. In some embodiments, the mode ofoperation depends on the accommodation of available waste haulers. Infurther embodiments, access to the internal contents of the containersis restricted.

In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste using at leastone authenticated network connection is disclosed. In one embodiment,the system comprises a plurality of containers associated with aplurality of waste categories. In one embodiment, a waste itemidentification device is configured to determine a qualitative parameterof an item of waste. In a further embodiment, a database comprisingwaste item classification information is provided. In other embodiments,a control system is programmed to compare the qualitative parameter ofthe item to information contained in the database and to assign thewaste item to a waste category. In other embodiments, the control systemis further configured to identify at least one of the containers basedon the waste category. In one embodiment, at least one networkconnection is provided, permitting the control system to communicatewith at least one other component of the system. In a furtherembodiment, the one or more network connections are authenticated and/orencrypted.

In some embodiments, the one or more network connections comprise ahardwired connection. In one embodiment, the hardwired connectioncomprises an Ethernet connection. In other embodiments, the one or morenetwork connections comprise a wireless connection. In one embodiment,the one or more network connections may comprise both hardwired andwireless connections. In one embodiment, authentication is accomplishedby using the entry of at least one necessary code. In one preferredembodiment, the necessary code or codes are entered using one or moreflash drives and/or keyboarded devices. In one embodiment, thekeyboarded device is a personal computer. In one embodiment, the one ormore necessary codes is entered using one or more Ethernet ports. Insome preferred embodiments, the one or more network connections aresecured by one or more firewall systems. In other embodiments, access tothe waste items after the waste item is placed into said container isrestricted to authorized personnel.

In one embodiment, a system and method for sorting waste comprisingupdated waste information is disclosed. In one embodiment, the systemcomprises a plurality of containers associated with a plurality of wastecategories. In one embodiment, a waste item identification device isconfigured to determine a qualitative parameter of an item of waste. Ina further embodiment, a database comprising waste item classificationinformation configured to receive updates to the information isprovided. In yet a further embodiment, a control system is programmed tocompare the qualitative parameter of the item to information containedin the database and assign the item to a waste category. The controlsystem may be further configured to identify at least one of thecontainers based on the waste category.

In one embodiment, the updates are received in real-time. In oneembodiment, the updates are received from one or more networks. In afurther embodiment, the updates are received at least once during apre-determined time period. In some embodiments, the one or morenetworks are secured by one or more firewall systems. In otherembodiments, access to the internal contents of the containers isrestricted.

In one embodiment, a system for determining the level of contents withina container is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the systemcomprises a plurality of containers, with each of container associatedwith at least one waste category. In one embodiment, waste is placed inthe containers based on a determination by a database that compriseswaste classification information. In one embodiment, the systemcomprises a bar passing through each container at approximately the filllevel of the container. The system may also comprise one or moredetectors positioned to detect movement of the bar. In one embodiment,the system further comprises one or more position indicators attached tothe bar. In one embodiment, movement of the bar is detected by havingthe one or more detectors detect movement of one or more positionindicators. In some embodiments, the detector may be an opticaldetector, a non-optical detector, a photo-detector, a photo-interruptor,a mechanical sensor, an electrical sensor or an acoustical sensor.

In some embodiments, each container further comprises a lid which worksin conjunction with the bar of the corresponding container. In a furtherembodiment, when it is determined that the container is not capable ofaccepting any additional waste items, the lid operates to excludefurther access to that container. In some embodiments, the positionindicator may be situated on the outside of the container. In otherembodiments, the position indicator may be situated on the inside of thecontainer. In some embodiments, the detector may be situated on theoutside of the container. In other embodiments, the detector may besituated on the inside of the container. In a preferred embodiment, thebar is released at intervals to sweep across the container to determinethe level in the container. In one embodiment, the bar is released everytime the lid is opened. In some embodiments, access to the internalcontents of the containers is restricted.

In some embodiments, the waste identification device comprises ahandheld device. In some embodiments, the waste identification devicemay comprise a wireless handheld device that is operable to open theappropriate container for disposal of the waste item. In yet otherembodiments, the waste identification device comprises a wirelesshandheld device that is operable to signal the appropriate container fordisposal of the waste item.

In one embodiment of the invention, a system for sorting a plurality ofwaste items is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system comprises aplurality of containers, with each container associated with at leastone waste category. In a preferred embodiment, a handheld waste itemidentification device is configured to determine a qualitative parameterof an item of waste. In one embodiment, a database comprising waste itemclassification information is provided. In a further embodiment, acontrol system is configured to compare information obtained from thehandheld waste item identification device to information contained inthe database. In another embodiment, the control system is furtherconfigured to assign the item to at least one waste category. In yetanother embodiment, the control system is further configured to identifyat least one of the containers based on the waste category.

In some embodiments, the handheld waste item identification devicecomprises a barcode scanner. In some embodiments, the handheld wasteitem identification device is wireless. The wireless handheld waste itemidentification device, in some embodiments, communicates wirelesslyusing infrared technology, Bluetooth technology, and/or radiofrequency.In a preferred embodiment, the handheld waste item identification devicedisplays information regarding the waste item being discarded. In oneembodiment, the information displayed on the handheld device comprisesinformation regarding the particular waste container in which the wasteitem should be placed. In some embodiments, the handheld device may becapable of determining the user's location so that the nearest wastecontainer in which the waste item should be placed may be identified.

In one embodiment, the system comprises a handheld device that is usedto scan the waste item. The system then determines in which remotecontainer the waste item should be disposed. The handheld can providetext instructions to the user as to the proper container. For example,the handheld can instruct the user (via text or otherwise) to depositthe waste item into a certain container. The handheld can also identifythe proper container for waste disposal in certain embodiments.Alternatively, the system can automatically open the proper containerfor disposal. After the waste item is disposed, the container can bemanually or automatically shut.

In some embodiments, the waste comprises medical or pharmaceuticalwaste. In some embodiments, the waste item classification informationcomprises classification information based on local, state, or nationalenvironmental laws or regulations. In other embodiments, the waste itemclassification information comprises classification information based onlocal, state, or national drug enforcement laws or regulations. In otherembodiments, the waste item classification information comprisesclassification information based on a user's customized requirements. Inyet other embodiments, the waste item classification informationcomprises classification information based on one or more differentbases, including environmental laws or regulations, drug enforcementlaws or regulations and/or a customized system. In one embodiment, atleast one container comprises at least one lid that is operable to bemanually closed by the user. In some embodiments, one or more containerscomprise a machine-readable identification key enabling said containerto be hot-swapped.

For example, in some embodiments the waste comprises controlledsubstances. By federal law, controlled substances must be renderedunusable and recoverable. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) typicallyrequires that there be two witnesses to the destruction of spentcontrolled substances. In one embodiment, the controlled substances tobe disposed (e.g., the spent substances) are presented to the waste sideof the combined device. In one embodiment, if the substances are solid,they can be ground up (mechanically, sonically, or otherwise) and ifthey are liquid they can be wasted into the machine. The substancesenter a chamber and are weighed with a load cell. In one embodiment, thedevice would utilize an automated litmus test or a simplifiedspectrophotometer to establish if the substance presented was truly acontrolled substance as a measure to prevent diversion. A current wouldthen be applied to a carbon or diamond electrode and the controlledsubstances would be rendered unuseable and recoverable.

In some embodiments of the invention, a method of sorting waste isdisclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises receiving anidentifier associated with waste to be disposed. In one embodiment, themethod further comprises retrieving, based on the identifier,information from a database, wherein the information is derived fromapplicable rules regarding disposal of waste items. In one embodiment,the method also comprises assigning the waste to a disposal categorybased on the information retrieved from the database. In one embodiment,the method further comprises locating a container associated with theassigned disposal category. In a preferred embodiment, the methodcomprises providing access to an opening of the container whilesimultaneously restricting access to the interior contents of thatcontainer. In some embodiments, receiving an identifier associated withwaste is accomplished using a handheld device.

In one embodiment, a method of sorting waste is disclosed. In someembodiments, the method comprises receiving an identifier associatedwith waste to be disposed of using a handheld device. In one embodiment,the method further comprises retrieving, based on the identifier,information from a database, wherein the information is derived fromapplicable rules regarding disposal of waste items. In one embodiment,the method may also comprise assigning the waste to a disposal categorybased on the information retrieved from the database. In one embodiment,the method may comprise locating a container associated with theassigned disposal category. In a preferred embodiment, the method maycomprise facilitating disposal of the waste item into the containerassociated with the assigned disposal category. In other embodiments,access to the internal contents of the container is restricted. In otherembodiments, locating a container associated with the assigned disposalcategory also takes into consideration a machine-readable identificationkey located on each container that enables the containers to behot-swapped.

As discussed above, one or more containers used in accordance withseveral embodiments of the invention can be constructed from resilientmaterial, flexible material, durable reusable material, and/orlightweight material that can be reusable or disposable, or liner-typematerial. The container may or may not contain a separate liner. In someembodiments, the container is a pliable bag-like material that may beconsidered a liner itself.

In one embodiment, the system comprises one or more containers thatcomprise both a reusable receptacle and a separate disposable liner. Inone embodiment, a liner configured for removable placement within acontainer of a waste sorting and disposal system includes a plurality ofwalls defining an internal space, an opening configured to provideaccess to the internal space and a machine-readable identification keyon at least a portion of the liner. In some embodiments, the machinereadable identification key is configured to identify a type of wastethat the liner can receive.

In one embodiment, the liner has substantially the same shape as acontainer into which the liner is configured to be placed. In someembodiments, at least one of the walls of the liner comprises aprotrusion member, which is configured to contact a portion of acontainer. In other embodiments, the protrusion member is a flange, lip,hook or the like.

In one embodiment, at least one of the walls of the liner issubstantially translucent. In another embodiment, one or more walls ofthe liner (and/or other portions such as a lid or outer canister)further include a substantially translucent or transparent viewingwindow configured to permit a user to visually determine a contents ofthe liner. Infrared frequencies may also be used to determine wastelevel through windows or other sections.

In one embodiment, the liner comprises a polymeric material. In anotherembodiment, the liner comprises one or more flexible, rigid and/orsemi-rigid materials. In other embodiments, the line is configured tointerface with one or more level sensors.

In some embodiments, the machine-readable key of the liner isoptically-readable. In one embodiment, the machine-readable keycomprises one or more colors which are configured to correspond to atleast one type of waste category. In other embodiments, themachine-readable key is alphanumeric, graphical or the like. In yetother embodiments, the machine-readable key is configured to transmitone or more wireless signals. In one embodiment, the machine-readablekey includes at least one of an RFID tag, a chip, a magnetic strip orthe like.

In one embodiment, the liner additionally includes one or more sealingmembers which are configured to maintain the opening of the liner in aclosed position. In some embodiments, the sealing member comprises atleast one adhesive strip. In other embodiments, the sealing memberincludes other adhesive materials, clip, cable ties, clamps or the like.In other embodiments, at least a portion of at least one wall of theliner comprises a color code that is configured to correspond to atleast one waste category.

In one embodiment, a disposable liner for use in a waste disposal systemincludes a means for defining an internal space, a means to interfacewith a container positioned within the disposal system and a key meansfor indicating a liner type to the disposal system.

In another embodiment, a method of using a disposable liner within awaste container includes receiving one or more liners in a wastecontainer, reading an identification key on those liners and providingaccess to an interior of the liner if it is determined that a waste itembelongs to a category defined by the identification key. In someembodiments, the identification key defines a category of waste itemsthat are acceptable for placement in the liner.

In other embodiments, a method of protecting a container positionedwithin a waste disposal system includes providing a liner in acontainer, reading an identification key on the liner which defines acategory of items that are acceptable for placement in that liner,providing access to an interior of the liner for receipt of one or morewaste items, and determining or sensing the amount of waste in theliner. The liner may then be removed from the container when a specifiedlevel of items has been attained.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of medical wastesorting and disposal system including a plurality of interconnectedsorting and disposal stations in a centralized network;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of medical wastesorting and disposal system implemented in a decentralized network;

FIG. 3 is a perspective illustration of an embodiment of a wall-mountedsorting and disposal station;

FIG. 4 is a perspective illustration of one embodiment of afloor-standing sorting and disposal station;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a rolling cartsorting and disposal station;

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of a rolling cartsorting and disposal station;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting and disposalstation incorporated into a rolling medications cart;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the cart of FIG.7;

FIG. 9 is an alternative embodiment of the cart of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of one embodiment of asorting and disposal station comprising pivotable containers andsleeves;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting anddisposal station in the form of a convertible rolling cart in a firstconfiguration;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertiblerolling cart in a second configuration;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a container andportions of an interface with a sorting and disposal station;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of acontainer and portions of an interface with a sorting and disposalstation;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of acontainer;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container and analternative embodiment of portions of an interface with a sorting anddisposal station;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a container and analternative embodiment of portions of an interface with a sorting anddisposal station;

FIG. 18 is a schematic side elevation view of an embodiment of a filllevel sensor;

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a fill-level detectionsystem;

FIG. 20 is a an overview flow chart of one embodiment of a softwarealgorithm for measuring a fill level of a container;

FIG. 21 is a detailed flow chart of one embodiment of a method ofmeasuring a fill level of a container

FIG. 22 is a continuation of the flow chart of FIG. 21;

FIG. 22A is an electronic schematic of one embodiment of an array oflight detectors, illustrated further in FIGS. 22A ₁-A₅;

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a levelsensor system employing a video camera;

FIG. 23A is an electronic schematic of one embodiment of an alternativeembodiment employing a video system, illustrated further in FIGS. 23A₁-A₇;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a sortingalgorithm for use by embodiments of a medical waste sorting and disposalsystem;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a container-checking subroutine foruse by embodiments of a medical waste sorting and disposal system;

FIG. 26 is a diagram of one embodiment of machine-readable patterns forcontainers;

FIG. 27 is a table of examples of a 2-button action file;

FIG. 28A is a schematic of one embodiment of a 2-button keyboard anddisplay indicating a first prompt;

FIG. 28B is a schematic of one embodiment of a 2-button keyboard anddisplay indicating a second prompt;

FIG. 29 is a table of examples of a 4-button action file;

FIG. 30A is a schematic of one embodiment of a switch arrangementutilizing graphic images;

FIG. 30B is a schematic of one embodiment of a switch arrangementutilizing graphic images;

FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating a decision logic for identifying andcategorizing a particular waste item;

FIG. 32 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the invention, showinga cart version of a pharmaceutical waste collection and sorting device;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention,showing a wall unit version of a pharmaceutical waste collection andsorting device.

FIG. 34A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting anddisposal system, shown presenting a waste item near the scanner;

FIG. 34B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting anddisposal system, shown dropping a waste item into a container;

FIG. 34C is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting anddisposal system, shown closing the container;

FIG. 35 a is a perspective view of one embodiment of a substantiallyvertically-oriented sorting and disposal system;

FIG. 35 b is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting anddisposal system;

FIG. 35 c is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sorting anddisposal system, showing a handheld waste identification device;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a container with a lid and a bar;

FIG. 37 is side elevation view of a lid and a bar in the closedposition;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar in the closed position;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar in the partially openposition;

FIG. 40 is a side elevation view of a lid and a bar in the partiallyopen position;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar in the open position;

FIG. 42 is a side elevation view of a lid and a bar in the openposition;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a bar blocked by the containercontents;

FIG. 44 is a side elevation view of a bar blocked by the containercontents;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a latch assembly;

FIG. 46 is an elevation view of a latch assembly;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a lid and a bar position detectors;

FIG. 48 is an elevation view of a lid and a bar position detectors;

FIG. 48A is a perspective view of a container with a lid assemblyaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 48B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a drive mechanismattached to the container and lid assembly of FIG. 48A;

FIG. 48C is detailed perspective view of the drive mechanism illustratedin FIG. 48B;

FIG. 48D is a perspective view of the interior of the drive mechanismillustrated in FIGS. 48B and 48C;

FIG. 48E is a perspective view of the exterior of the drive mechanismillustrated in FIGS. 48B and 48C;

FIGS. 48F and 48G are elevation views of the drive mechanism illustratedin FIGS. 48B through 48E;

FIG. 48H is a top view of the drive mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 48Bthrough 48E;

FIG. 48I is a cross-sectional view of the drive mechanism illustrated inFIGS. 48B through 48E, as it is positioned within a correspondingcoupling of a lid assembly;

FIG. 49 is a schematic of one embodiment of a firewall system used fordata network protection;

FIG. 50 is a schematic of one embodiment of a prescription drug labelthat facilitates proper disposal of the item;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a removable liner for a containeraccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a removable liner for a containeraccording to another embodiment;

FIG. 53A is a cross-sectional view of a liner positioned within acontainer according to one embodiment;

FIG. 53B is a cross-sectional view of a liner positioned within acontainer according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 53C is a cross-sectional view of a liner positioned within acontainer according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 53D is a cross-sectional view of a liner positioned within acontainer according to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 53E is a cross-sectional view of a liner positioned within acontainer according to a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a removable liner for a containercomprising a window according to one embodiment; and

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of a removable liner for a containercomprising adhesive strips according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Waste Sorting And Disposal System

Embodiments of devices and methods for sorting a plurality of medicalwastes will now be described with reference to the attached figures. Inseveral embodiments, the waste sorting and disposal system is automated.In some embodiments, a medical waste sorting system comprising aplurality of individual sorting and disposal stations connected to oneanother via a centralized or de-centralized network is provided.Alternatively, a medical waste sorting system can comprise one or morestand-alone sorting and disposal stations configured to operateindependently of any other device. Although some of the followingembodiments are described in the context of individual stand-alonestations, it should be recognized that such individual stations can beconnected in a networked system to provide additional functionality orto improve efficiency. Conversely, some embodiments are described belowin the context of networked systems, certain features and advantages ofwhich can be readily applied to individual stand-alone systems as willbe clear to the skilled artisan. The term “sorting” is a broad term andshall be given its ordinary meaning and generally refers to thedistribution of one or more waste items into one or more appropriatewaste receptacles. The term “disposing” is also a broad term and shallbe given its ordinary meaning and shall, in some embodiments, generallyrefer to the discarding, “throwing out” or otherwise placing of one ormore items of waste into an appropriate receptacle, container or liner.The terms sorting and disposing may be used interchangeably. As usedherein, the terms receptacle and container are broad terms that can beused interchangeably.

In one embodiment, a waste sorting and disposal station comprises asorting station or machine, which includes a series of containerpositions or compartments, each compartment being configured to receivea removable container for collecting waste belonging to a particularcategory or classification. Some embodiments of a sorting stationcomprise a waste-identifying device, a processor configured to carry outa waste-sorting algorithm, and a waste-sorting mechanism. As usedherein, the term “removable” shall be given its ordinary meaning, andshall include disposable or reusable containers.

In some embodiments, a sorting machine comprises one or more sensors fordetermining the presence of a container, a type of container, and/or avolume or weight of a container. In another embodiment, the sortingmachine includes one or more sensors (e.g., an optical sensor) todetermine which container the item was deposited into and/or a time atwhich an item is deposited. Additionally, a sorting machine/station caninclude any of a variety of computer peripherals, such as user inputdevices (e.g., touch screens, keyboards, pointer devices, etc.), displaydevices, sound-producing devices (e.g., speakers or buzzers), or anyother peripheral device.

In many embodiments, several container types are provided, each typebeing associated with one or more particular categories orclassifications of pharmaceutical waste. In one embodiment, a singlecontainer is associated with a single waste category. In anotherembodiment, a single container is associated with multiple wastecategories.

In some embodiments, container types can include sharps containers,chemotherapy agent containers, infectious waste containers, ignitablewaste containers, hazardous P-list waste containers, hazardous U-listwaste containers, toxic pharmaceutical waste containers, non-toxicpharmaceutical waste containers, chemotherapy sharps containers,corrosive waste containers, or reactive waste containers. Additionalcontainer types can also be used as desired. In one embodiment, thecontainer types are pre-designated by the container provider. In otherembodiments, the container types are assigned by the hospital so thatthe hospital can individually customize its waste sorting system. Forexample, some hospitals may desire to define their own waste categoriesin order to comply with internal goals, thus user-defined containertypes can also be provided.

In a preferred embodiment, a waste identifying mechanism is provided. Inseveral embodiments, the waste identifying mechanism is configured toidentify a particular item of waste. Identification is preferablyaccomplished prior to deposit into the appropriate container.Identification of the waste item can be accomplished by scanning abarcode, reading a label (e.g., using an optical scanner and OpticalCharacter Recognition software), reading a Radio Frequencyidentification (RFID) tag, chemical sensors, spectroscopic analyzers, orby measuring or evaluating any other qualitative parameter of the wasteitem presented for identification. Alternatively still, an item of wastecan be identified by user input of information such as a trade name, ageneric name, a chemical name, National Drug Code (NDC), the abbreviatedname of the drug (or mnemonic), or other data associated with aparticular item of waste. For example, a 325 mg dose of aspirin can beidentified by ASPIOT3272. In one embodiment, a user can simply read awaste identifier from an item of medical waste and enter the identifierinto the system via a keyboard, touch screen or other user input device.

In one embodiment, once an item of waste is identified, the sortingalgorithm determines to which of a plurality of waste categories theitem belongs. The station then indicates to the user which container isassociated with that category. For example, in some embodiments thestation indicates a correct container by opening a door providing accessto the container. Alternatively, such an indication can be provided byilluminating a light or displaying a name or number of a container on adisplay device. In some embodiments, a waste sorting mechanism can carryout or instruct a user in delivery of the waste item to the appropriatecontainer.

In some embodiments, the waste sorting mechanism comprises a pluralityof openings providing access to the plurality of containers. Forexample, each of the containers can be configured to interface with anautomatically operable door or other means to present the containeropening to the user. Some embodiments of such an interface are describedin further detail below. Alternatively, the sorting machine can beconfigured to provide access to an appropriate container in other ways,such as by moving a container relative to the machine in order topresent a container opening to a user. In further alternativeembodiments, the sorting mechanism can include a series of lights orother indicators configured to inform a user of the correct containerfor a particular item of waste. Alternatively still, the sortingmechanism can include an apparatus configured to receive an item ofwaste from a user and physically convey the item to the appropriatecontainer, which may be removable.

In some embodiments, a single waste item may call for disposal inmultiple containers. For example, a syringe might contain a quantity ofa hazardous or controlled substance, which requires disposal in a firstcontainer. However, the syringe itself may require disposal in a second,separate container. In such embodiments, it is desirable for the systemto determine an appropriate sequence for the disposal of the separateparts of a single item. In the event that a waste item containsinformation (such as a barcode or label) sufficient to inform the systemof the need for a sequence of disposal steps, the system can determinethe optimum sequence, and can then inform the user of the appropriatesequence. The system may inform a user of the appropriate sequence bysequentially opening appropriate doors and/or by displaying instructionson a display screen. In one embodiment, a means can be provided for theuser to indicate whether an item of waste is empty or contains residualor bulk hazardous or non-hazardous contents.

Alternatively, it may be desirable for a user to determine the bestsequence for disposal, in which case, the user may enter informationinto the system requesting a particular sequence. Additionally, it mayalso be desirable for the system to include “shortcut keys” in order toprovide quick access to frequently-used containers, such as sharpscontainers. Such shortcut keys can be configured to quickly open aselected container.

In some embodiments, when a single waste item comprises a composite ofelements falling into different waste categories, such as a syringecontaining a controlled substance, which might, if disposed separately,be sorted into two different containers, the waste sorting system canindicate disposal of the composite waste item into the correctcontainer. In this manner, when it is inefficient, ineffective or evendangerous to separate the single composite waste item into itsindividual components, hospitals can still achieve compliance bydisposing of such hybrid or composite items into the most conservativehazard container. In some embodiments, if a composite waste item couldbe deposited in more than one container, the containers within a sortingstation can be ranked in order from “less” to “more” desirable in orderto facilitate a determination of which container is the “mostappropriate” hazard container in a given station. A determination ofwhether a particular container type (and corresponding waste category orcategories) is more or less appropriate can be determined by a varietyof suitable methods. In some cases, a selection priority can bedetermined empirically, while in other embodiments, the choice may bedetermined by comparing properties, such as amount of residual content,relative chemical toxicity, etc. bioactivity, etc., of elements of aparticular waste item.

In some embodiments, when a waste item is unrecognized by theidentification means, the sorting system will indicate disposal to thehighest hazard waste container. The system will notify the disposer thatthe waste item was unrecognized. In another embodiment, the sortingsystem may also notify a database or database personnel that the wasteitem is unrecognized, thus facilitating a database upgrade to includethat waste item for future disposals. In one embodiment, the system maybe equipped with a dedicated container that is exclusively used fordisposing such unrecognized waste items. The subsequent handling ofwaste items in such a dedicated container may depend on regulatoryrequirements, the facility's personal preferences or any other relevantconsideration.

In another embodiment, a waste item identification device is configuredto receive a waste item identifier from a waste item, and a decisionsystem is configured to assign the waste item to a waste category usingthe waste identifier and information contained in the classificationdatabase. Each of the containers is associated with at least one of thewaste categories, and the decision system is further configured toindicate into which of the containers a waste item should be depositedbased on the waste category. The decision system is further configuredto open an alternate container if the station does not include acontainer associated with the assigned category. In one embodiment, forexample, the alternate container is a container associated with thehighest hazardous level will be opened. In another embodiment, thealternate container is a container associated with the “next best”disposal category for the waste item.

In one embodiment, the alternate container is located adjacent to thepreferred (or “first choice”) container. In another embodiment, thealternate container is located in a different location from thepreferred container. For example, the alternate container can be locatedin a different room or on a different floor. In yet another embodiment,if an alternate container is unavailable, then the item may be rejected.In this situation, the user may be instructed to obtain additionalinformation on disposal.

Each of the containers is associated with at least one of the wastecategories, and the decision system is further configured to indicateinto which of the containers a waste item should be deposited based onthe waste category. The decision system is further configured to open analternate container if the station does not include a containerassociated with the assigned category. In one embodiment, for example,the alternate container is a container associated with the highesthazardous level will be opened. In another embodiment, the alternatecontainer is a container associated with the “next best” disposalcategory for the waste item.

In one embodiment, the alternate container is located adjacent to thepreferred (or “first choice”) container. In another embodiment, thealternate container is located in a different location from thepreferred container. For example, the alternate container can be locatedin a different room or on a different floor of a hospital or otherinstitution.

In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to determine the quantity ofwaste that has already been deposited into one or more containers. Insome embodiments, one or more sensors are used to quantitatively assessone or more parameters of the container and/or waste. These quantitativesensors include, but are not limited to, sensors that detect the weight,volume, density, and/or fill level of the waste in the container.

In one embodiment, one or more fill sensors are provided. A fill levelsensor can be used to monitor a fill level of each of the containers todetermine when a particular container is full. Once a container isdetermined to be full, the sorting system can signal a user to replacethe full container with a new empty container. Additionally, once aparticular container is full, some embodiments of the system can beconfigured to determine the weight or volume of waste material withinthe full container. The system can also be configured to print a labelto be affixed to the container. The label can include a variety ofinformation relating to the disposal of the waste items, the quantity,weight or volume of the items contained therein, a waste category nameor code, etc. The label may also include a list of items that are in thecontainer based on hazard classification, which, in some embodiments,will facilitate compliance with EPA laws. In other embodiments, thesystem may be configured to alert a user of other nearby wastecontainers capable of accepting the waste.

In some embodiments, quantitative sensors are not used. Instead, in oneembodiment, the quantity of waste is determined by direct visualizationof the waste in a container. Transparent or translucent containers areprovided to facilitate visualization in some embodiments. In severalembodiments, the containers are opaque, but provide a section or“view-strip” of translucent or transparent material to permitvisualization. In one embodiment, one or more sensors are provided inconjunction with means to directly visualize waste quantity. In oneembodiment, means for detecting a quantity of waste are not neededbecause the containers are replaced at regularly scheduled intervals, asdetermined by a waste transport company, a disposal company or hospitalstaff and independent of how much waste is in any given container.

In some embodiments, when a new container is placed in a sorting anddisposal station, the system can be configured to identify the newcontainer according to the type of waste the container it is permittedto hold. In some embodiments, a waste sorting and disposal station canbe configured to recognize containers in a static mode in which eachcontainer position within the station/machine is associated with aspecific container type. Upon insertion of a new container into thestation, the system can recognize the type of container and candetermine whether the new container is the correct type for the positionin which it was placed. Thus, a system of this type can insure that aconsistent arrangement of container types is maintained.

Alternatively, and more preferably, a sorting and disposal station isconfigured to recognize container types in a dynamic mode in which themachine is able to recognize and adapt to changing containerarrangements. Thus, according to this embodiment, each containerposition/compartment in a station will recognize and accept any newcontainer regardless of the container type, and the software will adapta sorting routine to account for the new configuration. In some cases,it may be desirable for a single station to have multiple containers ofa single type. For example, an oncology department may desire severalchemotherapy containers and no hazardous pharmaceutical containers,while an area of the hospital that does not use chemotherapeutic drugsmay want several sharps containers and no chemotherapy containers. Thisallows for substantial flexibility and customizability in system set up.In further embodiments, a sorting and disposal station can exhibitaspects of both static and dynamic systems, such as by allowing any typeof container in any container position, while requiring a minimum numberof containers of a particular type.

In some embodiments, the waste sorting and disposal system can besignificantly simplified by appropriately labeling products that willeventually be disposed as waste. For example, in one embodiment, aprescription drug label may provide disposal information at the time thelabel is generated. For example, the drug vial or other pharmaceuticalproduct label may indicate in what waste category the item should bedisposed. As illustrated in FIG. 50, in one embodiment, the label mayprovide alternative waste categories under which it should be disposed,depending on whether the item is empty or not empty and/or whether theitems is or is not a sharps. Such waste categorization informationprinted on such labels may be obtained from a waste disposal database asdiscussed herein.

For example, in one embodiment, an institution may print its ownspecific labels that are based on waste categories. In one embodiment,multiple labels are generated, each with its own simple code (color,numerals, letters, etc) and affixed to a drug vial. At the time ofdisposal, the scanner (which is configured to read these institutionspecific codes) is able to associate the waste item with the appropriatewaste container. In one embodiment, a scanner is not needed. Rather, theuser can read the symbol and dispose of the waste accordingly. A 2-Dbarcode label may also be beneficial in some embodiments by eliminatingthe need for an HL7 interface.

Network-Implemented System

In some embodiments, a waste sorting and disposal system can beconfigured on a hospital-wide level by providing a plurality ofcooperating sorting and disposal stations throughout the hospital. Thesystem can include a plurality of individual sorting and disposalstations in a variety of types, arrangements, sizes, functionalities,etc.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a centralized wastesorting and disposal network. As shown, a centralized network 50 caninclude a main central unit 54 provided in electronic communication witha plurality of smaller “satellite” units 60 throughout a facility. Insuch a centralized network, the main unit 54 can include a servercontaining the classification database 56 and any other information tobe shared with the satellite units 60. As information is needed by asatellite unit 60, it can query the database via the network in order toobtain that information. Alternatively, or in addition, the main unit 54can be configured to push updates to the satellite units at regularintervals, or as new information becomes available. In some embodiments,the main unit 54 can also act as a central hub for variouscommunications, tracking, maintenance and other system functions.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a de-centralized medical wastesorting and disposal system. The network 64 of FIG. 2 is substantiallydecentralized and comprises a plurality of sorting and disposal stations60 which can communicate with one another according to any suitablemethod. For example, in a decentralized network, each of the individualunits may locally store a copy of the classification database. In orderto keep the classification database updated, the individual units canshare information with one another according to any of a variety ofpeer-to-peer network protocols. The individual stations can also shareother information with one another as will be further described below.

In either case (centralized or decentralized network), the networkelements can be configured to communicate with one another via anysuitable wired and/or wireless network communication protocol. Manyhospitals already have existing wired and/or wireless networksconnecting computers and communications devices throughout the facility.Thus, in some embodiments, a networked medical waste sorting anddisposal system can be configured as an add-on to an existing network.Alternatively, a networked medical waste sorting and disposal system canbe configured as an independent network. Additionally, the main unit (ifpresent) and/or the satellite unit(s) can further be connected toexternal networks (e.g., the internet) via wireless or wired connectionsas desired, consistent with a hospital protocol.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable for one sorting and disposalstation to have access to information about one or all of the otherstations in the network. For instance, it may be desirable for any onestation to determine an arrangement of containers in one or more nearbystations. For example, if a clinician presents an item of waste to astation which does not presently have a container suitable for disposalof the presented item, that station can direct the clinician to thenearest station that does have an appropriate container installed. Infurther embodiments, a log of such re-directions can be kept in order toincrease efficiency by arranging the sorting and disposal stations toinclude the most frequently used containers for a given location.

Some embodiments of a waste sorting and disposal system are configuredto communicate information directly to a technician, maintenance person,clinician or other person. For example, the system can be configured toalert a maintenance person when a container is full by sending an alertsignal to a pager, cell phone, PDA, computer terminal, or any othersuitable device. The maintenance person can then remove the fullcontainer and replace it with an empty container (of the same or adifferent type). For example, the system may be set up to detect certaintypes of waste (e.g., P-listed waste) and start a timer for removal,thereby, in some embodiments, facilitating compliance with EPA laws.

Individual Sorting/Disposal Stations

A medical waste sorting and disposal station can take a variety of formsdepending on the specific needs of a given clinic, hospital, department,clinician, etc. For example, some embodiments of sorting and disposalstations 60 are illustrated in FIGS. 3-12. For example, a station can beprovided in a wall-mounted unit 60 a (e.g., see FIG. 3), in afloor-standing unit 60 b (FIG. 4), on a wheeled cart 60 c (FIGS. 5 and6), attached to a patient bed, attached to an IV pole, attached to anexisting wheeled medications cart 60 d (FIGS. 7-9), or any of a varietyof other shapes, forms and mounting locations.

The embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6 also includes a display device 70, aweight scale 72, a scanner 74 for identifying waste items and aplurality of apertures 78 configured to reveal openings to respectivecontainers 80. In other embodiments, the apertures are designed toselectively occlude and reveal openings or access ports.

With reference to FIGS. 7-9, some embodiments of a station can comprisea movable lid 82 with a single aperture 84. The lid 82 can besubstantially flexible such that it can be driven to translate above thecontainers in order to selectively provide access to any one of thecontainers below the lid 82.

In some embodiments, the sorting machine can be configured to provideaccess to an appropriate container in other ways, such as by tilting,raising, lowering, pivoting, translating or otherwise moving a containerrelative to the machine in order to present the container opening to auser.

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment in which a sorting station comprises aseries of hinged sleeves 86 configured to pivot relative to a fixedportion of the sorting station. Each sleeve 86 is generally configuredto temporarily house a container 80, which may be removable. The station60 e comprises a series of actuators configured to pivot each sleeve 86and its associated container 80 outwards, thereby exposing the containeropening 88. In one embodiment, an actuator 90 can be located adjacent anupper portion of a container 80 and can be configured to push the upperportion of the container outwards from the station. Alternatively thesleeve 86 can be biased outwards by a spring or simply by gravity, andan upper actuator can be configured to release the sleeve/container toallow it to pivot outwards to open. The upper actuator can then pullinwards to return the container/sleeve to a closed position.

Alternatively or in addition, a lower actuator 92 can be providedadjacent a bottom portion of the container/sleeve combination. In oneembodiment, a lower actuator 92 can comprise a drive axle 94 rigidlymounted to the sleeve 86. The axle 94 can be driven by a motor or othermechanism in order to pivot the sleeve 86 inwards and outwards. Acontainer 80 can be inserted into the sleeve 86 and pivoted back so thata fixed portion of the station 60 e covers the container opening 88.During use, the actuator 90 or 92 causes the sleeve 86 to pivot outwardfrom the station 60 e, thereby exposing the container opening for use.The container 80 can be removed by sliding it out of the sleeve 86. Inan alternative embodiment, the above system can be provided without asleeve 86 by incorporating an actuator and a pivot point into thecontainer itself. In further alternative embodiments, other actuators,drive mechanisms, etc can be used in order to selectively provide accessto a container opening.

In another embodiment, the station can be configured to house each ofthe containers in a sliding drawer. The drawers can include actuatorsconfigured to move the drawer outwards until an opening is exposed. Thecontainers can then be easily removed once they are full.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate another embodiment of a waste sorting anddisposal station 60 f in the form of a convertible rolling cart. In afirst orientation, illustrated in FIG. 11, the station 60 f is atwo-sided rolling cart. The station 60 f of this embodiment can beprovided with a hinge 96 configured to allow the two sides 98 a, 98 b ofthe cart 60 f to unfold into a one-sided arrangement. FIG. 11 shows thecart in an unfolded form, so that it may be placed or mounted against awall. FIG. 12 shows the cart in a folded form, and thus suitable for useas a cart.

In some embodiments, a sorting and disposal station 60 can include ascale configured to determine a weight of a full container. Thus, ascale 72 can be provided on an upper or other accessible portion of thestation. Alternatively, the station can include a scale (e.g., a loadcell) to continuously or repeatedly weigh each container within thestation. Such information can be useful in creating a manifest for thecontainers before transportation of the containers to an appropriatedisposal facility. Additionally, or alternatively, a station can includea fill level sensor for continuously or intermittently determining afill level of a container. Embodiments of a fill-level sensor aredescribed in further detail below.

FIG. 32 shows another embodiment of the invention comprising a wheeledcart 60 g, a display 70 (which in some embodiments may be a touch-screendisplay), and a barcode scanner 74. The display 70 and barcode scanner74 are supported by a post 38 of suitable size and shape to orient thedisplay 70 and scanner 74 for convenient access by a user.

According to one embodiment, a user holds a pharmaceutical waste item tobe discarded near the scanner 74 and responds to one or more questionspresented on the display 70. Using a database lookup and a specializedcomputer algorithm, a CPU then determines the proper container toreceive the waste item. In other embodiments, the user simply scans theitem to be discarded without answering any questions or inputting anyinformation into the system.

The cart 60 g is equipped with a plurality of lids 82. As shown in FIG.32, each lid 82 is latched in a closed position by a release mechanism62. When a particular lid 82 is directed to open, electronics, asolenoid, and a spring (not shown) cause the lid 82 to rotate to an openposition revealing a container (not shown) for receiving thepharmaceutical waste item. Following manual deposit of the item into theappropriate container, the user closes the lid 82 by applying handpressure to a lever 66, which, in one embodiment, is an extension of thelid 82. The release mechanisms 62 can be protected by covers 68 toprevent tampering with the release mechanisms 62 contained therein.

The cart 60 g is further provided with a deck 42, side skins 44, anddoors 48 to prevent damage resulting from spills and unauthorized accessof the mechanisms 62, internal components, and the containers. The doors48 are provided with a key lock 46 so that only authorized servicepersonnel may change out the containers when full.

A power entry module 36 provides an electrical cord for connection to awall outlet for powering the cart and/or charging an internal battery(not shown). One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that othermeans for supplying power may also be used.

The cart 60 g is also equipped with a base 30, wheels 32, and one ormore handles 34 to enable pushing the cart 60 g from one location toanother.

In some embodiments, the invention is provided as a wall unit. FIG. 33shows one embodiment comprising a wall unit 60 h, a display 70 (which insome embodiments may be a touch-screen display), and a barcode scanner74. The display 70 and barcode scanner 74 are oriented for convenientaccess by a user.

In one embodiment, a user holds a pharmaceutical waste item to bediscarded near the scanner 74 and responds to some questions presentedon the display 70. Using a database lookup and a specialized computeralgorithm, a CPU then determines the proper container to receive thewaste item. In other embodiments, the user simply scans the item to bediscarded, without answering any questions or imputing any informationinto the system.

The wall unit 60 h is equipped with a plurality of lids 82 arranged inan array. As shown in FIG. 33, each lid is latched in a closed positionby a release mechanism 62. When a particular lid 82 is directed to open,electronics, a solenoid, and a spring (not shown) cause the lid 82 torotate to an open position revealing a container (not shown) forreceiving the pharmaceutical waste item. Following manual deposit of theitem into the appropriate container, the user closes the lid 82 byapplying hand pressure to a lever 66, which in one embodiment is anextension of the lid 82. The release mechanisms 62 can be protected bycovers 68 to prevent tampering with the release mechanisms 62 containedtherein.

The wall unit 60 h is further provided with a deck 42 (one at each levelin the array), side skins 44, and doors 48 to prevent damage resultingfrom spills and unauthorized access of the mechanisms 62, internalcomponents, and the containers. The doors 48 are provided with a keylock 46 so that only authorized service personnel may change out thecontainers when full.

The wall unit 60 h, in one embodiment, can include an electricalconnection or other means (not shown) for powering the unit and mountingbrackets (not shown) for anchoring the unit 60 h to a wall.

FIGS. 34A, 34B and 34C show an embodiment, which may be provided in cartform or as a wall unit. In one embodiment, a user holds a waste item tobe discarded near a barcode scanner 74. In one embodiment, using adatabase lookup and a specialized computer algorithm, a CPU determinesthe proper container to receive the waste item. The waste item can bediscarded into the appropriate container after the corresponding lid 82has been opened. Once the waste item has been discarded, the user maypush the lid 82 to its default, closed position.

FIGS. 35 a, 35 b, and 35 c show alternative embodiments of the wastecollection system. FIG. 35 a shows a sorting device that is oriented ina substantially vertical position. FIG. 35 b shows a sorting device thathas a plurality of top and side access regions. As in other embodiments,using a database lookup and a specialized computer algorithm, a CPUdetermines the proper container to receive the waste item. The wasteitem can be discarded into the appropriate container after thecorresponding lid has been opened. This embodiment is advantageous inhealthcare facilities where available space is limited. In someembodiments, the sorting device is further provided with a deck 42, sideskins 44 and doors 48 to prevent damage resulting from spills andunauthorized access of the mechanisms, internal components and thecontainers. In one embodiment, the doors 48 are provided with a key lock46 so that only authorized service personnel may change out thecontainers 80 when full. In some embodiments, the sorting device mayalso be equipped with a base 30, wheels 32 and/or one or more handles 34to enable pushing the cart from one location to another. FIG. 35 c showsalternative embodiments (for example, alternatives of FIGS. 32 through35 b) in which the waste identification device (such as barcode scanner74) is provided as or on a handheld 73 or other portable device. Thedisplay 70 may be provided as or on the handheld 73 or other portabledevice. Handheld embodiments may be used instead of or in addition towaste identification devices that are attached or fixed to a sortingstation or other location.

In some embodiments, the container lid or other mechanism that providesaccess to the interior of the container, may be configured to open andclose automatically. In other embodiments, for safety purposes, thecontainer lid or other mechanism that provides access to the interior ofthe container, may not be capable of closing automatically. In suchembodiments, the user is required to manually close the lid or othermechanism.

In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 34 a, 34 b and 34 c,the sorting system may be configured to automatically open a containerlid following a barcode scan of the waste item. The user can thenmanually close the lid after discarding the waste item in the container.In one embodiment, the container automatically opens and closes. Inanother embodiment, the container automatically opens and can be closedmanually. In yet another embodiment, the container is operable to bemanually opened and closed. In a further embodiment, the container isopened manually, and closes automatically. Automatic closure of thecontainer can be based on a pre-determined time interval. Alternatively,once a waste item is disposed within the container, the container mayuse one or more sensors to determine that the waste has beenappropriately discarded, and automatically closes upon this sensordetermination. In yet another embodiment, the user can communicate tothe system (e.g., by pressing a button) to close the containerautomatically.

Containers

In some embodiments, the containers are generally designed to be lowcost, yet include features that provide a functional interface withmechanisms in a sorting station to perform several desired functions.For example, in some embodiments, each container includes a door or lidwhich can be opened and closed automatically in order to allow orprevent access to a particular container at a particular time.Additionally, the containers can be configured to interface with sensorsfor determining a quantity of contents within the container, and/orsensors for determining a type of container.

In some embodiments, the containers 80 are blow molded (or otherwiseformed) from polypropylene, high molecular weight polyethylene,polyvinylchloride or any other suitable plastic or other material asdesired. In some embodiments, the containers 80 have substantiallyfrosted or translucent side walls. The containers will typically besized to have an internal volume of anywhere from 1 to 20 gallons,however greater or smaller volumes can also be used as desired. Forexample, in some particular embodiments, containers (e.g., liners) canbe provided in 1-gallon, 2-gallon, 3-gallon, 5-gallon, 8-gallon,10-gallon, and 13-gallon sizes. Other sizes can also be used.

The shape of the containers can vary widely. In some preferredembodiments, the containers include a lifting handle, a primary openingwhich can be automatically and/or manually closed or sealed, and abottom surface configured to allow the container to stand upright.Additionally, the containers can also include features such as anautomatically-openable door or lid, a manually closable lid, featuresfor accurately locating the container in a container compartment of astation, a viewing window for visually verifying fill level, and/oridentification information for informing a user of a container'scontents (or intended contents).

The containers can be provided with an opening 88 having a variety ofshapes and/or features. For example, in one embodiment, the opening 88is substantially circular and has a minimum internal diameter of atleast about three inches (˜76 mm). In other embodiments, the opening 88can be substantially elliptical, rectangular, polygonal or otherwiseshaped, and can be any suitable size, including sizes smaller than threeinches in diameter. The particular type or types of waste to bedeposited in a particular container can be a significant factor that canbe used in determining a suitable size and/or shape of a containeropening. In general, the container opening should be sized to easilyaccept the largest waste item that is expected to be deposited in thecontainer. For example, some containers might receive full or partiallyfull liter-sized IV bags, gallon-sized biohazard bags or other largeitems. It is generally desirable that the container opening beconfigured to accept these large items easily and without tearing thebags or otherwise damaging or causing spillage of a waste item. Theskilled artisan will recognize that other factors may also affect achoice of container opening size or shape.

In some embodiments, containers are provided in a plurality of types,each type corresponding to a respective waste category or wasteclassification. In order to allow clinicians, maintenance people, andany other persons who may handle the containers to quickly and easilydifferentiate containers of various types, the containers can becolor-coded to correspond with a particular type or category of waste.In some embodiments, a color-coding scheme can be selected to matchindustry standards for various types of medical waste. Red, for example,typically signifies infectious waste, while yellow typically signifieschemotherapeutic waste. Color-coded containers can advantageouslysimplify the tasks associated with manual transportation and processingof the containers, and can aid in ensuring that such tasks will behandled correctly for each waste stream.

Alternatively, such visual verification of a container's type can beprovided by any other suitable method. For example, the variouscontainer types can be indicated by labels bearing numeric,alphanumeric, graphical or symbolic information. Such labels can includeprinted stick-on labels or various features molded or formed directlyinto portions of the containers themselves. If desired, suchtype-identification features can be provided in addition to color-codingof the containers in order to further simplify identification of acontainer's type. Providing simple visual verification of a givencontainer's type advantageously simplifies and facilitates handling ofmedical waste materials throughout many aspects of collection anddisposal.

In some embodiments, the containers can be configured in such a way thata sorting and disposal station can automatically identify a type ofcontainer. Such automation allows a station/machine to detect the mixand arrangement of container types in the station at any given time. Insome embodiments, each container includes an identification key that canbe read by corresponding structures in a sorting station. The keygenerally allows the sorting station to automatically identify the typeof each container occupying a compartment or container position withinthe station. As discussed above, the station can be configured toidentify container types in either a static or dynamic mode depending ona desired degree of flexibility for a given station.

Identification keys may be physical features such as fingers molded intoor attached to each container. Alternatively, identification keys can beholes, notches, or grooves molded or cut into a portion of eachcontainer. In some embodiments, identification keys includeoptically-readable features such as holes, dark or light colored dots,text, symbols, graphics, etc. A physical key may be configured to beread by mechanical or optical switches associated with each compartmentor container position within the station. For example, FIG. 13illustrates an embodiment of a container 80 with an identification key104 made up of a series of holes 110 in a flange 112 extending from anupper portion of the container 80. The holes 110 of FIG. 13 can bedetected by a plurality of optical switches 138 mounted to a portion ofthe station adjacent a container position. Thus the various containertypes can be identified by providing holes (or other features) invarying combinations and positions.

Alternatively, a key may be an optical mark, such as a bar code, thatcan be interpreted by a sensor such as a bar code reader. Alternativelystill, the key may be a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag thatcan be read by a transponder associated with each compartment. In stillfurther embodiments, container identification keys can comprisemicrochips, magnetic strips, or other electronic media that can be readby a waste sorting and disposal station into which the container isplaced. In one alternative embodiment, a polychromatic sensitive opticalsensor can be provided to directly determine a color of a container or acolored label affixed to the container.

As discussed above, some embodiments of a container are provided withautomatically operable doors. In such embodiments, a container can beclosed by default to prevent insertion of items into an incorrectcontainer. Then, once an item is scanned or otherwise identified, thestation can open the appropriate container or otherwise signify thesingle correct container to receive that particular waste item.

FIGS. 14-17 illustrate embodiments of containers comprisingintegrally-formed automatically operable doors and correspondingstructures in a sorting station. The illustrated structures aregenerally configured to provide an automated interface between acontainer 80 and portions of a sorting and disposal station in order toallow the station to automatically recognize and operate a container.According to these illustrated embodiments, each compartment includes anactuator mechanism configured to automatically and selectively open andclose the corresponding container 80. The selective opening and closingof each container may be accomplished via interaction of structures onboth the container and the station, and can ultimately be controlled bya computer system within the sorting and disposal station.

In some embodiments, a container may include a movable lid molded orotherwise joined to the container opening. The lid can generally beconfigured to pivot, slide, hinge or rotate relative to a container inorder to reveal or cover the container opening. In some embodiments, thelid is configured to mate with a mechanical actuator in the station uponinstallation of the container in a given container compartment. Theactuator can be configured to allow the lid to open and close bytranslating, rotating or pivoting the lid. The actuator and lid can befurther configured to separate from one another when the container isremoved from the station.

FIG. 13 illustrates one embodiment of an interface between a container80 and portions of a sorting station. In the illustrated embodiment, thecontainer 80 comprises a gate 116 covering an opening 88 and configuredto slide in tracks 118 between an open position and a closed position.The gate 116 can include a latch 120 configured to lock (e.g.,automatically lock) the container opening when the gate 116 iscompletely closed. When a new container 80 is inserted into a station, adrive pin 122 on the gate control arm 124 is engaged by the gate 116 ofcontainer. The control arm 124 is configured to open and close the gate116. The gate control arm 124 can be coupled to a drive motor 128 via atransmission element such as a disc 132 or a similarly functioning arm.If desired, a position switch 134 can also be provided on the disc 132,control arm 124, gate 116 or other component in order to detect aposition of the gate 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the positionswitch 134 is an optical switch configured to detect one or more holes136 in the disc 132. Additionally, the sorting station can include aplurality of optical switches 138 for detecting the presence of acontainer and/or the type of container 80 inserted into the sortingstation. The embodiment of FIG. 14 replaces the gate control arm 124 ofFIG. 13 with a slot 140 in the gate 116 in order to convert therotational motion of the pin 142 extending from the disc 132 into linearmotion of the gate 116.

In alternative embodiments, other configurations of automaticallyopenable doors/gates can be provided. For example, FIG. 15 illustratesan alternative embodiment of a container comprising a sectioned door 150configured to slide along tracks 152 extending from the exterior surfaceof the container 80. The slidable lids of the above embodiments can beprovided with a latch (such as that shown in FIGS. 13 and 14) which canbe automatically engaged in order to lock the container once a sortingstation determines the container is full. The embodiment illustrated inFIG. 16 can include a slidable door 116 driven by a rack and piniondrive mechanism 156. Alternatively, the drive mechanism 156 of FIG. 16can comprise a driven friction wheel configured to engage a portion ofthe slidable lid 116. A similar pinion or friction wheel drive systemcan be used to automatically operate the sectioned door 150 of theembodiment shown in FIG. 15. FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of acontainer 80 with a lid 158 configured to open by pivoting relative tothe container 80. In further alternative embodiments, a door can beopened or closed by any of a variety of other mechanisms. For example,worm screws, pneumatic pistons, hydraulic pistons, solenoids, or anyother motion-transferring mechanism can be used to selectively open andclose a container door.

In some embodiments it may also be desirable to provide an outer lidconfigured to seal a container opening once the container is full. Theouter lid is preferably configured to attach to the containersufficiently securely to prevent spillage or tampering. An outer sealalso shields users from contaminants that may have come in contact withthe container top area during use. For example, in some embodiments aflexible lid can be configured to seal over a top of the automaticallyactuated door by frictionally engaging a lip, groove, or other structurein a manner similar to many flexible lids used in food storagecontainers. In alternative embodiments, outer seals can be provided inthe form of a bag or shrink-wrap material that surrounds a substantialportion of a container's exterior.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide a containerconfigured to render waste items non-recoverable by providing asubstance within an “empty” container that can react chemically withwaste items. In another embodiment, a solidifying agent can be providedwithin a container in order to solidify non-hazardous pharmaceuticalsallowing for their disposal in a landfill. In some embodiments, suchsolidifying agents can include materials capable of absorbing a quantityof a liquid non-hazardous pharmaceutical material. For example, suchabsorbent materials can include ceramic materials, sponge materials orother porous materials. Alternatively, such solidification may involve achemical reaction between the waste material and a substance providedwithin the container.

Fill-Level Detection System

In some embodiments, it is desirable to measure a fill level of wastewithin a container throughout the sorting and filling process. In someembodiments, such fill level sensing can be performed by measuring aweight of a container, such as by using a load cell, balance, or otherweight measurement device. In further embodiments, float systems can beadapted for use in determining a level of a waste material in a wastesorting system. In some cases, it is also desirable to perform such filllevel measurements without the sensor physically contacting thecontainer or the container contents.

Level sensors are commonly used in many fields to determine a quantityof a solid or liquid within a container. Three popular level sensorsinclude floats, sight glasses and ultrasonic systems.

In a float system, a buoyant device or “float” is placed in thecontainer, where it remains partially submerged in the liquid retainedwithin the container. The float is used to detect a level of a fluid inthe container by activating a switch located at a pre-determined point.Alternatively, the float detects the container's fluid level byactivating a potentiometer, which reports the fluid level over acalibrated range.

Sight glass type level sensors evolved from manual systems in which anoperator observed the level in a container through a transparent window.Sight glass type sensors which today are implemented using lightsensors, generally require a window through which to project and receivelight.

Ultrasonic fill level sensors direct a beam of ultrasonic energy towardan object and detect the time delay associated with that beam of energyreflecting off the object and returning to the sensor. Thus, the timedelay correlates to a particular height of the contents in thecontainer.

The assignee of the present application also owns technology related tothe optical detection of the level of material in a translucent plasticwaste container. See, e.g., applications Ser. Nos. 10/945,223;10/946,252; 10/946,161; 10/945,773; 10/946,164; 10/946,207; 10/946,208;and 10/946,054, herein incorporated by reference. As described below, insome embodiments, measurements are made by illuminating one side of thecontainer and collecting the light received by an array of photodetectors located on the opposite side of the container. In oneembodiment, a microprocessor interprets the light received at the arrayof receptors, compensates for ambient light and the relativetransmissivity of individual containers, and determines whether thecontainer is full.

In some embodiments, a piezo transducer can be used to determine avolume of air remaining in a container by conducting a frequency sweepof the transducer to determine the resonance of the air in thecontainer. Once the volume of air in the container is known, the airvolume can be subtracted from the known total container volume to obtainthe volume occupied by the container contents. In another alternativeembodiment, a distance-measuring sensor (such as SONAR, RADAR or opticaldistance-measuring sensors) can be located above and directed throughthe opening of the container in order to determine a “height” of thecontainer contents. In another embodiment, a sensor can be provided fordetermining whether a container includes any waste at all. Such a “wastepresence” sensor can be used in combination with a timer to determine areplacement schedule for a particular container based on a maximumacceptable dwell time for a particular waste item in a container. Stillother embodiments may use optical sensors to measure a fill level of acontainer.

FIGS. 18-19 illustrate one embodiment of a level sensor which can beused to automatically determine a fill level of a container using anoptical method. As shown in the schematic illustration of FIG. 18, oneembodiment of a fill level sensing system comprises a light source 230and a light detector 232 positioned on opposite sides of a container 80.In alternative embodiments, the light detector 232 need not be locatedimmediately opposite the light source, for example, in some embodimentsthe detector can be located on a wall adjacent to the source 230. Thesensor system of FIGS. 18 and 19 generally operates on the principlethat an “empty” container will permit more light to pass from thesource, through the container, and to the sensor than will a “full”container. This is simply due to the fact that the contents of thecontainer 80 will absorb and/or reflect a substantial portion of thelight which enters the container from a light source.

As used herein, the terms “empty” and “full” shall be given theirordinary meaning and shall be used to define relative amounts of debris,or other matter, in a container. For example, in certain embodiments,the sensor may indicate that the container is ready to be emptied ordiscarded, not because it is completely saturated, but because it hasreached the desired point of fill or saturation. In some situations, itmay be desirous to empty or remove a container when anywhere from about1% to about 100%, often from about 25% to about 100% of that containercontains waste material. In other situations, it may be desirable toremove a container when about 50% to about 95% of its volume is occupiedby waste material.

In some other embodiments, a parameter other than weight or filledvolume may be used to determine when a container is “full.” For example,in one embodiment, a sensor to detect radioactivity is used to determinethe amount of radioisotope in a container or receptacle. Theradioactivity sensor may be used in connection with a fill sensor, or itmay be used alone. Thus, in some embodiments, a container may beemptied, discarded, or replaced based on a certain amount ofradioactivity, rather than (or in addition to) the surface area, volume,weight, density and/or another parameter of the material in thatcontainer.

In yet another embodiment, a sorting and disposal system can be providedwithout any automatic level detection apparatus. For example, in such anembodiment, the containers can be configured to allow a clinician,maintenance person, or other user to visually verify a fill level of thecontainer. In such embodiments, the containers can be made of asubstantially transparent or translucent material. Alternatively, thecontainers may be substantially opaque but can include a transparentviewing window to allow visual verification of a fill level. Suchviewing windows could extend substantially an entire height of thecontainer, or could extend only a height of a desired portion of thecontainer.

In some embodiments, the source 230 and detector 232 are located along a“fill line” which generally defines a “fill plane.” The fill plane 240is generally the level within the container 80 which a processor 242defines as “full.” In some embodiments, the actual free surface ofcontents within a container may not necessarily be planar. In suchembodiments, the “fill plane” used by the processor and fill levelsensing system is simply an average height of the material.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18, a light source 230 is locatedat a “front” of the container and a detector 232 is located at a “rear”of the container. In alternative embodiments, the positions of the lightsource 230 and detector 232 can be reversed, or positioned at any otherposition around the container 80. In still further embodiments, multiplesources and/or detectors can also be used as desired.

As discussed above, the containers 80 are typically made of atranslucent material which allows at least some amount of light to passthrough its walls. The embodiments of a fill level sensor illustrated inFIGS. 18 and 19 are particularly advantageous when used to measure afill level of a container with translucent sidewalls. However, theskilled artisan will recognize that certain advantages of theembodiments described herein may be advantageously applied to systemsusing containers having transparent sidewalls or containers withtransparent windows in otherwise relatively opaque sidewalls. As usedherein, the term “translucent” is used in its ordinary sense and referswithout limitation to a material which allows the diffuse transmissionof light when illuminated, while remaining substantially non-transparentwhen not illuminated.

The light source can comprise any suitable source of light such asincandescent bulbs, white or colored LED's, or other sources. In someembodiments, the light source 230 is located such that it is verticallycentered on a desired “fill line” 240 of the container. The light sourcecan be laterally centered relative to the container, or can comprise awidth that is about as wide as the container 80. In still furtherembodiments, a plurality of light sources can be used to illuminate acontainer from multiple points.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, the light detector 232 can comprise an arrayof photo detectors 236 such as cadmium sulfide photo detectors orphotodiodes. In the illustrated embodiment, the array of photo detectors236 comprises three rows 244, 246 and 248 of detectors 236. The upperrow 244 contains a single detector 236 while the middle 246 and lower248 rows contain a plurality of detectors 236 (three in the illustratedembodiment). In alternative embodiments, the upper row 244 can beprovided with additional detectors which equal or exceed the number ofdetectors in the other rows. Similarly, the middle 246 and lower 248rows can include fewer or more than three detectors as desired. Thenumber of detectors in each row will typically be determined by thealgorithm used to determine the fill level of the container and/or thedegree of accuracy desired. In some embodiments, it may also bedesirable to provide more than three rows of detectors. For example, insome embodiments, a fill level detection system can be provided withfour, five or more rows of detectors.

In some embodiments, the middle row of detectors is positioned to liejust above the fill line 240 of the container 80, and the lower row 248of detectors 236 is positioned just below the fill line 240. The upperrow 244 of detectors 236 can be located substantially above the fillline, and can be used to calibrate the detectors middle 246 and lower248 rows as will be described in further detail below.

In some embodiments, the upper and middle rows can be spaced by adistance 250 of between about ½″ and about 2 inches, in otherembodiments the upper and middle rows can be spaced by a distance 250 ofbetween about 1 inch and about 1½ inches, and in one particularembodiment, the upper and middle rows are spaced by a distance 250 ofabout 1¼ inches. Similarly, the middle and lower rows can be spaced by adistance 252 of between about ½″ and about 2 inches, in otherembodiments, the middle and lower rows can be spaced by a distance 252of between about 1 inch and about 1½ inches, and in one particularembodiment, the middle and lower rows are spaced by a distance 252 ofabout 1¼ inches. In some embodiments, the detectors 236 of the middle246 and lower 248 rows are spaced horizontally by a distance 254 ofbetween about ½ inch and about 3 inches, in other embodiments, thedetectors 236 of the middle 246 and lower 248 rows are spacedhorizontally by a distance 254 of between about 1 inch and about 2inches, and in one particular embodiment by a horizontal distance 254 ofabout 1½ inches. In some embodiments, the sensors are evenly spaced,while in other embodiments, the sensors of the middle row arehorizontally spaced differently than the sensors of the lower row. Infurther alternative embodiments, the spacing of the detectors 236 can bedetermined by factors such as the size of the container or the materialto be placed within the container.

In operation, the individual photo detectors 236 pick up lighttransmitted through the container and output corresponding signals to aprocessor 242. On one hand, the light intensity arriving at thedetectors 236 depends on the fill level of the container 80. Inaddition, a number of secondary factors also affect the light intensityreaching the detectors 236. These include the strength of the lightsource 230, the color and opacity of the container 80, the amount ofambient light, and other factors such as dust in the air. The lightintensity at the top detector row 244 is almost completely governed bythese secondary factors, since it is located well above the fill line240. By contrast, the light intensity arriving at the middle 246 andlower 248 detector rows will be affected more by the fill level of thecontainer contents as the container 80 becomes more full (e.g., as thefill level approaches the fill line).

When the container 80 is empty and the overall light intensity isgreatest, a baseline reading is recorded and calibration coefficientsare generated for each of the detectors 236 and detector rows 244, 246,248. As the container fills, the received light reaching the detectorsdecreases slightly as material in the container blocks a portion of thediffused light transmitted through the container 80. During this phase,the top detector reading is used to compensate the readings of themiddle and lower detector rows accordingly. When the container contentsreach the fill line, the bottom row of detectors will be blocked by thecontainer contents, while the middle 246 and upper 248 detector rowsremain unobstructed. This results in a substantial drop in the lightintensity reaching the bottom row 248 of detectors, and correspondingly,a substantial difference in signal strength between the middle 246 andlower 248 detector rows. When this signal difference reaches apre-determined threshold level, the processor determines that thecontainer is “full.”

In some embodiments, the items being deposited into a container may bestacked unevenly or oddly oriented within a container so that thecontents of a container vary from a neat horizontal fill level. Forexample, some large items, such as syringes or other contaminatedmedical devices, may stack oddly within a container, thereby creatingvoids of unfilled space in a central portion of a container, above whichwaste items may be stacked. Such variations in filling can lead tomeasurement errors. Thus, in some embodiments, a level sensing systemcan be provided with error processing capabilities to account forvariations in orientation and/or uneven loading of a container.

For example, in some embodiments, the signals from the plurality ofdetectors in each row are averaged to provide a consensus value for therespective detector row. This advantageously allows the processor todetermine an average fill level in the event of an uneven fill surface.For example, in an idealized case, a container filled with a pluralityof spherical particles through a hole in the top center of aregularly-shaped container will typically have a free surface in a shapeof a cone with a peak at the center, and dropping off evenly in eachdirection. In such a case, the center detector of the lower row 248 willtypically receive a lower light intensity than the detectors on eitherside. Thus, by using the data from all of the detectors in a horizontalrow, a processor can calculate an approximate average fill level inorder to prevent over-filling of the container.

These or other error-processing techniques can also be used tocompensate for manufacturing defects in a container that might result inerroneous results. For example, if a plastic container wall comprises anair bubble or a dark spot in a region adjacent one or more of thedetectors, these abnormalities could cause erroneous readings by thosedetectors. To compensate for this, a system may give less weight (or noweight at all) to signals from detectors that are out of a statisticallyexpected range of variation from the remaining detectors. By taking anaverage signal across all detectors in various combinations and/or byassigning varying weights to individual detectors, a control algorithmcan teach itself to recognize and adapt to such error-causing situationsin order to obtain consistent readings.

In some embodiments, the functionality of a fill level sensing systememploying a light source and a plurality of optical detectors canadvantageously be enhanced by containers with “frosted” or translucentwalls. Another advantage of certain embodiments of a level sensingsystem as described herein is that such systems can be polychromaticsensitive (e.g., configured to sense light of various colors withconsistent accuracy). Thus, in addition to measuring a fill level of acontainer, the above-described sensors can be configured to determine acolor of a container (each container color being associated with aparticular container type as discussed above). In some embodiments,these and other advantages are achieved through the use of cadmiumsulfide photosensitive cells. In alternative embodiments, optical levelsensors can be constructed using other optical detectors, includingother photoconductive cells, photo diodes, or other sensors capable ofdetecting light in the visible or infrared spectrum.

In some embodiments, each one of a plurality of fill-level sensors iscontrolled by a single processor in a waste sorting system. In oneembodiment, a plurality of photo detector arrays can be connected to asingle multi-channel bus, and a plurality of light sources can becontrolled by a processor. In this embodiment, the processor canilluminate a single container at a time. Thus, the detectors behind eachof the “dark” containers would be at high impedance, and would thereforebe out of the circuit,

In some embodiments, a fill level sensing system employing opticalsources and detectors can include an additional photo detector that isgenerally configured to measure changes in “ambient” light within thesystem in order to appropriately adjust the readings from the detectorarrays measuring fill level. An ambient light detector can comprise asingle optical detector, or a plurality of detectors in a circuit. Inone such embodiment, an additional ambient light detector is providedwithin a waste sorting system in a location selected to measure anylight entering the system from the exterior of the sorting system. Forexample, the ambient light detector can be located adjacent acontainer-replacement door or any other portion of the system that isopen to external light.

In one embodiment, optical detectors may be located on opposite sides ofa container, or on the same side of the container.

FIG. 22A illustrates one embodiment of a circuit schematic which can beused in building an optical fill level sensor such as that illustratedin FIGS. 18 and 19. The skilled artisan will recognize that this ismerely one exemplary schematic, and that alternative embodiments of thesystem of FIGS. 18 and 19 can be built using any appropriate components.

FIGS. 20-22 are flow charts illustrating embodiments of softwarealgorithms used by a level detector for use in a sorting system. FIG. 20is a flow chart illustrating an overview of a level testing algorithm.When the system determines that a new container has been inserted, thelevel sensor establishes new baseline values for the detectors in orderto define the “empty” state. The level sensing system then reads valuesof the detectors 236 and inputs the detector values to an inferenceengine (FIGS. 21 and 22).

The inference engine can use a “fuzzy logic” method similar to theSugeno method. In one embodiment, the inference engine uses a table ofempirically-determined data to establish rule weights. The inferenceengine can also use multiple grouping of detectors in addition toindividual detector levels to calculate a final fill level of thecontainer. In some embodiments, the empirically-determined lookup tablecan be developed by performing various calibration experiments using anoptical level sensing system to measure containers at known fill levels.In addition to any controlled experiments, the lookup table can besupplemented by analysis of information it receives during use inmeasuring fill levels of new containers. For example, as opticalanomalies are detected and accounted for, the software can adapt tocorrect for them.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are flow charts illustrating one embodiment of aninference engine. In order to avoid misleading readings during filling,the system can be configured to determine when the detectors are at asteady state (e.g., when the movement of waste within the containerdrops below a threshold level). This is particularly helpful inembodiments in which a waste material is a liquid, and thus may continuemoving for a period of time.

Once steady state is reached, the inference engine compares the valuesof the detector readings and ultimately derives a final fill value whichcan be stored and/or output to a user-readable device such as a liquidcrystal display. In alternative embodiments, an output of the system caninclude other visible, audible or tactile alerts, such as LEDs, buzzers,bells, vibrators, etc. In some embodiments, an output signal is used tonotify the user that a particular container is ready to be emptied,discarded, replaced etc. In an alternative embodiment, an output signalis provided substantially continuously or at various intervals, so thatthe user can determine or monitor the amount of material in a givencontainer at any given time. For example, in some embodiments, thefill-level of a container can be measured at regular intervals, such asevery ten minutes, every hour, every two hours, every six hours, every12 hours, or every 24 hours. In still further embodiments, the systemcan comprise a sensor (such as an optical sensor) to determine when anitem is deposited into a container. Then a fill-level of the containercan be measured after each item is deposited in the container.

FIG. 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a video fill levelsensing system. The embodiment of FIG. 23 employs a camera 270 tocontinuously detect an intensity of light exiting the container from thesource. In the illustrated embodiment, a light source 272 is positionedto illuminate the container 80, and a curved mirror 274 and pinholevideo camera are located adjacent another side of the container 80. Thesystem can also include a software-based processor 276 and otherelectronic hardware. In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 270is located adjacent one vertical side of the container 80 and the cameraand mirror are positioned on the opposite side of the container. Inalternative embodiments, the light source 270 and camera/mirror assemblycan be located on adjacent sides of the container 80. Alternativelystill, the light source 270 can be located above the container such thatlight is directed downward into the container, thereby allowing thewaste to absorb as well as reflectively diffuse the light source ontothe walls of the container 80.

In some embodiments, the camera 270 is directed at the mirror 274 todetect light emitted from the container 80 and gathered by the mirror274. The curved mirror 274 provides a linearization of scanline width bydistorting the optics of the camera. In one embodiment, the camera 270is a pinhole camera, which is selected due to the depth of field thistype of lens provides. In one embodiment, the curved mirror 274 has ashape substantially similar to a shoehorn, e.g., it is curved about twoperpendicular axes (e.g., longitudinal and transverse axes). Alternativemirror configurations can also be used as desired. The particularcurvature of the mirror 274 is determined empirically depending on thewidth of scanline needed and the height of the measured area (e.g., theheight of the container wall). Variation in the curvature of the mirroralong its length allows the scanline to be optimized in order toemphasize areas of higher interest and to de-emphasize lower interestareas. The mirror can be convexly curved at the height of higherinterest areas, and concavely curved to de-emphasize lower interestareas.

In some alternative embodiments, the light source can include bands ofvarying color or intensity along the height of the container in order toprovide emphasis to portions of the container, or to provide “watermark”levels that can be measured against. In some embodiments, the softwarecan be configured to interpret information received from the camera tolearn about points of interest in order to further optimize ameasurement algorithm. For example, rather than programming an algorithmto anticipate areas of higher or lower interest, the algorithm can beconfigured to recognize variations in light intensity during calibrationin order to detect such areas of higher or lower interest.

The processor and its support hardware provide the sampling of multipleluminance intensities along the wall of the container 80 adjacent themirror 274. The analog video signal is amplified and ground-referencedby the video amplifier. This amplified signal is scanned for a selectedscanline to digitize for quantifying its luminance value. The amplifiedvideo is also applied to the Sync Separator module, which producestiming pulses for the scanline selector module. The processor receivesthe scanline data from the scanline selector, digitizer and syncseparator. The video level sensor can determine a current fill level ofthe waste in the container 80 using a similar software method to thatdescribed above with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19. FIG. 23A illustratesone embodiment of a circuit schematic which can be used in building avideo fill level sensor such as that illustrated in FIG. 23. The skilledartisan will recognize, however, that this is merely one exemplaryembodiment. In alternative embodiments, the system of FIG. 23 can bebuilt using any appropriate components.

Many of the above embodiments of fill level sensors were described withreference to a single container. In some alternative embodiments, it maybe desirable to provide a single fill level detection system configuredto selectively measure a fill level of any one of a plurality ofcontainers. For example, in one embodiment, a light source may beprovided on a first side of a plurality of containers, and a lightdetector can be movable into a position opposite the light source of thecontainers. In one embodiment, this may take the form of a circulararrangement of containers in which a light detector is located at acenter of a circular arrangement of containers. One or more lightsources can be positioned on an outer portion of the circulararrangement such that the light source and/or the light detector iscapable of measuring a fill level of each one of the plurality ofcontainers around the circle.

In some embodiments, the sorting system can also include a weight scale(such as a load cell, pressure transducer, mechanical scale or otherdevice) configured to weigh either a single spent drug, container orindividual segregated spent drugs. In one embodiment, the informationfrom the scale can be sent to a printer providing a means for printing amanifest for the container. Additionally, such information could becombined with other information available to a clinician in order todetermine a quantity of a drug or substance that has been used orconsumed. Many hospitals are automating the dispensing of drugs. Theautomation is usually embodied in a piece of equipment that a doctor ornurse accesses with a patient and clinician code and the correct amountof drug is dispensed. The automation provides pharmacists, nurses,doctors and administrators with information from a database on whatdrugs are dispensed and to which patient. These systems can typicallyindicate how much of a drug was administered, but entering thisinformation typically requires a clinician to return to the dispenser(which may be inconvenient, and thus not done regularly). Thisinformation can be quite useful because it will demonstrate anyinefficiencies or mistakes in administrating the drugs as well as pointout any theft of drugs. In some embodiments, a sorting and disposalsystem can be configured to track dispensing information because at thepoint of throwing the spent drug away, they are automatically providinginformation to a central database.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises one or more levelsensors, wherein the level sensor comprises a bar, wherein the bar isperiodically adapted to pass through a container at approximately thefill level. In one embodiment, a position indicator (or other visualindicator) coupled to the bar is also provided, wherein movement of thebar causes movement of the position indicator. In some embodiments, theposition indicator may be comprised of a physical flag. In oneembodiment, a detector adapted to detect movement of the positionindicator is also provided. Thus, in one embodiment, the inventiondetects movement of the bar, thereby sensing the level of waste in acontainer. The position indicator can be fixed, tied, attached,connected, or otherwise coupled to the bar. Physical contact between theposition indicator and bar is not needed.

In one embodiment, the container comprises a level sensor that comprisesa bar, wherein the bar is adapted to pass through the container. In oneembodiment, a photo-detector adapted to detect movement of the bar isalso provided, thereby sensing the level of waste in a container. Aposition indicator, or other mechanism, may also be coupled to the barfor detection by the photo-detector. The photo-detector can be adaptedto either detect transmission of light or to detect the absence oftransmission. Thus, in some embodiments, the photo-detector can be aphoto-interruptor. One of skill in the art will understand that severaloptical sensors can be used in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention. One of skill in the art will also understand thatnon-optical sensors (such as mechanical sensors, electrical sensors, andacoustic sensors) may also be used in accordance with some embodimentsof the invention. For example, mechanical sensors, electrical sensors,and/or acoustic sensors may be used to detect the movement of the bar,and thus detect the level of waste in a container.

In yet another embodiment, a method of detecting the level of materialin a hazardous waste container is provided. In one embodiment, themethod comprises passing a bar through the container at the approximatefill level, wherein the bar is coupled to a position indicator (or othermechanism), wherein the position indicator (or other mechanism)activates a photo-interruptor to determine whether the container isfull. The method further comprises detecting whether the bar is free tomove or is blocked by the contents, thereby detecting the level ofmaterial in a hazardous waste container.

In a further embodiment, a method of detecting the level of material ina hazardous waste container (opaque or translucent) by passing a barthrough the container is provided. In one embodiment, the bar is passedat the approximate fill level and a detector is used to determinewhether the bar is free to move or is blocked by the contents. Aposition indicator fixed (or otherwise coupled) to the bar activates aphoto-interruptor, to detect the end position and determine whether thecontainer is full. The bar operates in conjunction with a lid, thatexcludes access to the contents of the container. The lid may also havea position indicator and photo-interruptor for determining its position.

Some embodiments of the present invention can also be used forreceptacles containing materials other than medical or pharmaceuticalwaste. Thus, in some embodiments, the level sensor can be used withnon-medical, non-pharmaceutical containers, holders, or vessels.

The level sensor apparatus, in one embodiment, comprises a bar, aposition indicator tied to the bar, a photo detector, and processingelectronics. The level sensor apparatus, in one embodiment, is used todetermine when a container is full, thereby necessitating the need foraction, such as emptying or replacing the container. The level sensorapparatus, in one embodiment, is directed at the problem of leveldetection in hazardous waste containers. In one embodiment, the levelsensor comprises a bar, induced under spring force (or other force) topass through a container approximately at the fill level. The bar isactivated periodically, such as when the container lid is operated.Since the bar may come into contact with hazardous waste, it may becomesoiled in use or otherwise contaminated. In a preferred embodiment, thebar is part of the container, so that it may be disposed, or cleaned forreuse, along with the container.

In another embodiment, a position indicator (or similar feature), iscoupled to the bar, so that movement of the bar causes movement of theposition indicator. In a preferred embodiment, the position indicatorresides outside the container, so that the associated detecting meansare not in contact with the hazardous waste. However, one of skill inthe art will understand that the position indicator may also be locatedwithin the container. The position indicator can be fixed, tied,attached, connected, or otherwise coupled to the bar. However, physicalcontact between the position indicator and bar is not needed. Moreover,one of skill in the art will understand that a position indicator issimply provided in one exemplar embodiment, and therefore, otherindicators can also be used.

In one embodiment, a photo-interruptor, or other detecting means, isutilized to detect movement of the position indicator. In a preferredembodiment, the detector is situated on the outside the container, sothat it is not in contact with the hazardous waste. However, one ofskill in the art will understand that the detector may also be locatedwithin the container.

In one embodiment, the bar is released at intervals to sweep across thecontainer. In a preferred embodiment, the bar operates each time the lidis opened. The bar can operate in a horizontal, circular, or othermotion. In a preferred embodiment, the lid and bar are both rotary, andshare a common axis. Thus, both the lid and bar describe a circularmotion as they rotate from the closed to the open position.

In one embodiment, the opening forces may be applied by compression,extension, or torsion springs, or by other motive forces, such as atorque motor. In a preferred embodiment, the spring forces are providedby torsion springs.

In one embodiment, the lid may be closed manually, by a motor, or byother means. In a preferred embodiment, the lid is closed manually. Inone embodiment, in the closed position, the lid and bar are restrainedby one or more latches, which control the opening of the lid by opposingthe opening spring force. In a preferred embodiment, the lid is latched,and the bar is in turn restrained by the lid by an interfering stop.Thus, the latch reacts to the sum of the two spring forces. In oneembodiment, when the door opens, the latch releases the lid, and boththe lid and bar open simultaneously under independent spring forces. Inone embodiment, as the lid is rotated closed, the bar remains in contactwith the lid and is pushed along ahead of it the lid until the latchclicks into the closed position. As the lid rotates open, the barfollows the rotation of the lid.

In yet another embodiment, if the container is not full, the lid and barboth complete their full excursion and arrive at the open position. Ifthe container is full, the lid rotates open, but the motion of the baris impeded by the container contents, and cannot reach the openposition. Thus, according to one embodiment, the bar photo-interruptorremains unactivated, and the circuit detects a full container.

Other embodiments that incorporate one or more level sensors aredescribed below, in conjunction with restricted access containers.

Sorting Algorithm

Embodiments of a pharmaceutical waste sorting and disposal system willgenerally employ a waste sorting algorithm to assign each item of wasteto a particular waste category and correspondingly to a particular wastecontainer. A waste sorting algorithm can take a variety of forms, andcan include a range of functionalities.

In some embodiments, as discussed above, determination of the wastecategories themselves can depend on a number of factors, including RCRAhazardous waste definitions, state and federal EPA regulations, OSHAregulations, and any institution-specific regulations. For example, RCRAdefinitions generally include a P list, a U list and fourcharacteristics of hazardous waste: ignitability, corrosivity, toxicityand reactivity. Materials exhibiting each of these characteristicstypically call for different handling, treatment and/or disposal. Thus,in some cases waste categories can be defined based on groups ofmaterials that require the same or similar handling, treatment, ordisposal. However, in some cases, two materials that may be handledand/or treated in a similar manner might react adversely if they arecombined with one another. Thus, in further embodiments, determinationof the waste categories can also depend on the combinability ofmaterials exhibiting one or more of the above characteristics.

Once a series of unique waste categories is established, lists of knownpharmaceuticals, chemicals, materials and waste items can be selectivelyassigned to at least one of the waste categories. In some embodiments,as discussed above, when a waste item is presented to a sorting station,the item is identified according to a waste item identifier. Suchidentifiers can include a trade name, a generic name, a National DrugCode (NDC), one or more components or ingredients of the item, or anyother sufficiently unique or relevant waste-identifying datum. Thus, acategory database can be developed which correlates a number of knownwaste identifiers with respective waste categories according to existingfederal, state, local, institution-specific or other rules andregulations.

In some embodiments, it may also be desirable to provide a databasewhich lists ingredients of a plurality of known pharmaceuticals or otherchemicals that have not yet been correlated to a waste category by thecategory database. Such an ingredient database can be used by thesorting algorithm in an intermediate step between identifying an itemand assigning the item to a category on the basis of one or moreingredients. In some embodiments, an ingredient database may residewithin the waste sorting and disposal system. In alternativeembodiments, an ingredient database can reside at a remote location,such as on a server operated by a manufacturer of a particular item, oranother remote location. The waste sorting and disposal system can beconfigured to access such remote databases via any available network,including the internet. In some embodiments, the remote or localdatabases may receive updates to maintain the sorting process current.In some embodiments, the updating occurs periodically based on apredetermined time interval (e.g., once every 24 hrs, week, month,etc.). In another embodiment, the updating occurs when a user promptsthe system for an update. In yet another embodiment, the updating occurswhen the system encounters a waste item for which no appropriate wasteclassification can be found.

In some embodiments, on a first level, assignment of waste items towaste categories can be performed simply by sorting the items accordingto known characteristics. In some embodiments, a waste sorting algorithmsimply involves locating a waste item identifier in a look-up table ordatabase which lists known identifiers correlated to respective wastecategories, such as the category database described above. Thus, to theextent that an item can be assigned to a waste category based solely onone or more waste item identifiers, the sorting algorithm can comprise asimple look-up routine. If needed, the sorting algorithm may also seekadditional information such as from the ingredient database describedabove, or any other available source of additional information.

Cases may arise where a single waste item possesses two or more wasteidentifiers (such as ingredients) belonging to two or more differentwaste categories. Thus, in the event that a particular waste item canreasonably be assigned to two or more waste categories, yet is onlyphysically capable of being placed in a single container, the wastesorting algorithm can be configured to assign the item to a singlecategory by reviewing a number of secondary variables. Such secondaryvariables may include a dosage or quantity of specific ingredients; adilution or concentration level of one or more ingredients; a relativehazardousness level of one or more specific ingredients; a relativereactiveness of one or more ingredients; a shape, size, type or otherfeature of a waste item container (e.g., a pill bottle, syringe, etc); aphysical property of the item (e.g., liquid, solid or gas), or any otherdatum that may be available to a user, but that might not beautomatically determinable by the sorting station. If such a piece ofadditional information is needed in order to complete an assignment ofan item to a container, the sorting station can prompt a user to inputfurther information. Such additional information can be input byselecting from multiple answer choices or by typing.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a sortingalgorithm. In the illustrated embodiment, a user initiates the processby presenting 300 a waste item to be identified by the sorting station.The sorting station then detects 302 a waste item identifier in anymanner discussed above, such as scanning a barcode, reading an RFID tag,or scanning a textual or graphic label. The system then searches 304 thecategory database using any information or identifier determined fromthe item in an attempt to discover whether the determined identifier haspreviously been correlated to a waste category. If the identifier isfound 306 to have been correlated to a waste category, the systemcontinues by assigning the item to the appropriate waste category, andfacilitating disposal of the item in the appropriate container.

On the other hand, if the identifier is not found in the categorydatabase (e.g., if the system discovers that the determined waste itemidentifier is insufficient to determine an appropriate waste category),the system may search an ingredient database 308 for additionalinformation or further details about the item. If additional informationis found 320 in an ingredient database, the additional information,along with the originally-detected waste item identifier can be used toagain search the category database 322. If this information is found tobe sufficient 324 to assign the item to a waste category, then thesystem assigns the item 326 to that category, determines an appropriatecontainer 328 and facilitates disposal 330 of the item in a containerassociated with the assigned category. The system can also store 340 theidentifier/category assignment combination in the category database foruse in accelerating the sorting of future waste items with the sameidentifier.

However, if the search of the ingredient database yields insufficientinformation to assign the item to a waste category, the system may seekadditional information by prompting a user 342 to input additionalinformation. Such a prompt may request specific information, such as achoice between known alternatives, or may be more general in nature. Theinformation received 344 from the user can then be combined withpreviously-obtained information about the item, and the categorydatabase can again be searched in an attempt to assign the item to acategory. If this information, in combination with thepreviously-obtained information, is sufficient to assign the item to awaste category 346, then the system assigns the item 326 and facilitatesdisposal 330 of the item in the appropriate container. As above, thesystem can also store 340 the identifier/category assignment combinationin the category database for use in accelerating the sorting of futurewaste items with the same identifier.

If the information received 344 from the user is insufficient 346 forthe system to make a category assignment, the system can either promptthe user for still more information 342, or the system can simply assign350 the item to the most conservative waste category for disposal of theitem as hazardous waste.

FIG. 25 illustrates one embodiment of a portion of a sorting algorithmwhich can be used in determining the best container for a particularitem. Once the sorting algorithm has assigned an item to a wastecategory, the system determines 328 the container type associated withthe assigned waste category. In the illustrated embodiment, the stationsearches the stock of the containers currently loaded into that stationto determine whether the assigned container type is present in thatparticular sorting station 360. If the container type is present, thestation proceeds to indicate 362 the appropriate container to the user,and the user may then deposit 330 the item into the selected container.However, in some embodiments, if the selected container type is notpresent, the station can assess 366 whether another sorting stationnearby contains a container of the assigned type. If a station with theselected container is nearby, the system can direct the user 370 to thenearby station to deposit the item. If a station with the selectedcontainer type is not nearby, the system can re-assign 368 the wasteitem to the most conservative (e.g., the highest level hazardous waste)category for which a container is loaded into the station.

In an alternative embodiment, a station may indicate that the selectedcontainer is full and thus cannot accept any further waste items. Insuch a case, the station can instruct the user to replace the containerwith an empty one of the same type. Alternatively, the station caninstruct the user to use a container in a nearby station. In someembodiments, the station may offer the user a choice between replacing acontainer and using a nearby station.

The term “nearby” is a relative term, and can include any actualdistance deemed appropriate by a particular user or systemadministrator. For example, in some embodiments, a station located onanother floor of the hospital may be considered nearby, while in otherembodiments, a sorting station across the hallway may not be considerednearby for the purposes of re-directing disposal of the waste item.

In some embodiments it may be inappropriate or undesirable to re-assignan item to a higher level container in the event that an appropriatewaste category cannot be determined (e.g., as in step 350 of FIG. 24),or that an appropriate container cannot be located within an acceptableproximity (e.g., in step 368 of FIG. 25). In such embodiments, it may bedesirable to provide a temporary holding space for items that cannot beplaced in any currently present container to the extent allowed byregulations governing satellite storage of hazardous waste. Such itemscan then be analyzed at a later time by a hazardous waste analyst inorder to determine the most appropriate disposal of the item. Once suchan analysis is performed, the analyst preferably enters such informationinto the category database in order to facilitate future sorting ofitems having similar characteristics.

In some embodiments, the waste sorting software can be configured tomaintain a log file of all identified waste items and thecategories/container to which each item was assigned. Such informationcan be used by hospital administrators, regulatory auditors,pharmacists, or other entities to determine what items were disposed ofand how. This information can be used to further optimize the sortingalgorithm, to audit compliance with regulations, to audit usage ordisposal of specific items, to alter a container arrangement in astation to increase sorting efficiency, or any of a variety of otherpurposes.

By enlisting the use of one or more embodiments of the present system,hospitals can demonstrate to their communities and their staff that theyare participating in the improvement of the environment. It has beendemonstrated by the US Geological Survey that the groundwater in theUnited States is contaminated with drugs. Although in trace amounts, thecumulative effect of these contaminants have been shown to be endocrinesystem disrupters contributing to the rise in cancers, birth defects andother ailments. By properly sorting the spent drugs into appropriatecontainers, the waste can be properly processed in order to leave onlyan inert residue that cannot contaminate the ground water.

Thus, embodiments of a medical waste sorting and disposal systemadvantageously provide a convenient means for clinicians toautomatically sort pharmaceutical waste streams in order to comply withRCRA without the need to manually classify and sort each itemindividually. Additionally, the system advantageously provides hospitalswith a means for participating in the improvement of the environmentwhile avoiding fines for non-compliant waste disposal methods.

Additionally, as described above, some embodiments of the system can beconfigured to create a manifest to provide administrators suitabletracking information on the amount of a drug that has been actuallyused. Many hospitals are now moving toward implementing drug dispensingautomation. The automation provides the hospital pharmacist andadministrator information on what drugs are dispensed but not aconvenient way of generating information on how much of a drug is used.

Medical Waste Treatment System

In one embodiment, a medical waste treatment system is provided. Themedical waste treatment system is a product that renders infectiouswaste non-infectious, compacts it to a fraction of the original volumeand uniquely maintains the treated material in a compact form. The costof present embodiments of a medical waste treatment system is much lessthan competing technologies, because the footprint of the equipment is,in one embodiment, about one fourth the size. Competing technologieshave cycle times that are long (usually about one hour) whichnecessitate large vessels for acceptable throughput versus the medicalwaste treatment system which has a cycle time of less than five minutes.

In one embodiment, the operating cost goal (about $0.09/lb) will beequal or better than most common technology, autoclave sterilization.Other competing technologies may have lower operating costs but theyhave many drawbacks. Incinerators may be one option, but it is possiblethat the EPA may tighten regulations and force many of the remainingincinerators to shut down. Many states do not allow incinerators tooperate within their boundaries. For example, much of California'sinfectious waste is trucked to a Kansas City incinerator. Thetransportation costs add to the actual operating costs. Plasmatechnologies have equipment costs that are very high ($1-$3 million) andare, therefore, only suitable for central processing plants.

In one embodiment, a medical waste treatment system as a truck mountedservice to hospitals is provided. The medical waste treatment system hassignificant advantages over truck mounted chemical processors. Themedical waste treatment system unlike the chemical processors has aresidue that is substantially innocuous such as common sand. It has beendemonstrated that if there are any concentrations of organic matter,such as blood, the chemicals tend to be consumed by the organics leavingsome of the remaining waste in a load untreated or partially treated. Inone embodiment, the medical waste treatment system uses a unique heattechnology that quickly and uniformly decontaminates the wasteregardless of the amount of organics present. In several embodiments,the heat technology comprises use of sand or wax (including, but notlimited to, paraffin) or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, thesand and/or wax is heated to a temperature of about 150° C. to about250° C., preferably between about 165° C. to about 225° C. In oneembodiment, the sand and/or wax is heated for less than about fiveminutes. One particular advantage of this method is the ability toproduce highly stiff and/or compacted medical waste. In someembodiments, the volume and/or surface area of the treated medical wasteis reduced to about 1/10 of its original size.

In addition to truck mounted systems, stand alone versions of the systemor a central off-site processing unit can be made available for hospitalpurchase. In this way, infectious waste can be treated efficiently.

Up to about 50% of infectious medical waste can be plastic, of whichabout 25% can include disposable PVC waste. Utilizing sand or wax totreat such plastic waste may not be any more cost effective than anautoclave or other processing approach for these materials. It also maycause a number of problems such as the PVC outgassing chlorine becausethe temperature may be greater than 320° F. (the effective meltingtemperature of PVC).

Thus, in one embodiment, a potential processing system for such plasticwaste includes a rough grinder to grind the heterogeneous infectiousmedical waste into 2″ by 5″ strips. A second grinder grinds the wasteinto small pellets that are less than 0.25″ in diameter. The wastepellets are mixed with a whitening agent and moisture that in thepresence of UVC and/or UVA will cause an oxidative reaction which inturn will denature protein or organics, thereby inactivating some if notall of the microorganisms or spores present in the pelletized waste.This will set up the microorganisms and spores for a shortersterilization procedure.

In some embodiments, the moisture can be removed by a dryer and thenconveyed to a hopper of a plastic extruder. The extruder can be set totemperature less than 320 degrees F. but hot enough to melt the PVC.Plasticizers and other additives may be introduced to get theheterogeneous pelletized mix of waste to flow homogeneously and notclump or dissociate. This process is also the final sterilizationprocedure. Many of the states have adopted a document called the STAATII (and soon STAAT III) sterilization guideline that spells out theamount of reduction of spores and microorganisms required forsterilization.

In some embodiments, the effluent from this plastic-treating processcould then be used as a filler for a product that is extruded intouseful products rather than being placed in a landfill. Reducingdisposal of solid waste is desirable because of the disposal cost (0.02to 0.05 cents per pound). In one embodiment, the effluent can be used inthe manufacture of fence posts and building materials. For example, theeffluent may be used for a security fence that is composed of a hollowextrusion that forms posts and walls. Extruded hospital waste mayprovide such hollow extrusions with more weight and structural integritythan wood. In another embodiment, multiple compressed Mylar sheets maybe applied to the exterior of the fence to provide additional benefits(e.g., rendering the wall bullet resistant or proof).

Other embodiments are possible, for example freeway dividers, caskets,asphalt filler for roads or any proprietary design that incorporatespreviously extruded hollow profiles that are filled with the extrudedsterilized infectious medical waste can be used.

Medical Waste-Water Monitoring System

In one embodiment, a medical waste water management system is provided.In one embodiment this system is a water quality sampling service thatis supplied to hospitals, clinics and labs. The product would beinstalled at the P trap of a sink. The medical waste-water monitoringsystem would sense water draining and a sample of water would bedirected to a cuvette on a carousel. The samples could be taken randomlyor in some predetermined sequence at a number of different sinksthroughout a facility. The carousel of cuvettes would be removed, andthen sent to an inside or outside lab for analysis. The analysis wouldpinpoint the location of any water pollution. Training classes toreinforce the proper disposal of pharmaceuticals are provided accordingto one embodiment of the invention. The service would continue on a lessfrequent basis once clinician habits had improved.

Despite a plethora of federal, state and local regulations, manyclinicians continue to inappropriately dispose of pharmaceuticals in thesink. This is especially true of pharmaceutical spiked IV fluids.Verification of this practice has been established in a recent marketresearch effort with 150 hospitals in which 60% of the respondentsadmitted to inappropriate disposal of drugs down the drain.

One advantage of several embodiments of this system is that it canpinpoint the source of the infraction. By combining this service alongwith the other products and services owned by the assignee of thepresent application will provide valuable improvement and advantages.

Air Quality Monitoring System

The air quality monitoring system is a service that utilizes a device tosample the air quality, primarily in the pharmacy, oncology andoperating room areas. It is intended to detect hazardous drugs includingchemotherapeutics and anesthetics that become volatilized. The serviceis intended to provide clinicians with drug specific air qualityinformation. The service will also suggest ways of eliminating thecontaminants with both devices and a change in protocol. One advantageof some embodiments of this approach is that drug specific informationthat can be obtained.

Hospital Hazard Prevention

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, hospitals and nursingfacilities are among the most hazardous work environments. Each year, anaverage of seven occupational injuries or illnesses out of 100 employeesoccurs. About half result in lost work time. Working with or exposure totoxic chemicals is the single largest contributing risk factorassociated with occupational injury and illness in healthcare

Although nanoemulsion disinfectants and microfiber materials forcleaning and disinfection have worked successfully to reduce toxicity,much opportunity remains to improve the hospital environment, making itsafer for the healthcare worker. Reducing hospital hazards will alsoresult in savings to the hospital.

In one embodiment, a system for a service to analyze and implementreductions in hospital hazards is provided. Implementing the solutionswith hospital personnel will be a process similar to making costreductions in organizations with significant numbers of administrativeprocedures.

Handheld Devices

In one embodiment, the waste sorting device comprises a computer,barcode scanner, memory, and wireless communication connected or coupledto an array of containers with automated opening means. In order toaddress anticipated cost concerns, less expensive means of sortingmedical waste have been considered. One embodiment of a low-cost medicalwaste sorting system and method comprises the use a wireless handheldcomputer or similar wireless device having a barcode scanner. Such awireless device can be used to scan waste items and determine the wasteclassification of the item being discarded. In one embodiment, thescanner communicates with an array of collection containers (eitherdirectly, via the system's control unit or via some other systemcomponent) using an infrared (IR) light beam (similar to that used bytelevision or stereo remotes). The IR beam causes the correct containerto open. This approach has the potential of redistributing hardwarecosts in a more favorable way. Thus, in one embodiment, the cost of thecontainer array is reduced by implementing the IR receiver and containercontrols in dedicated electronics. Of course those of skill in the artwill recognize that the handheld computer or device may communicate withthe other components of the sorting system in various other hardwiredand wireless ways, including, but not limited to, Ethernet, cable, radiofrequency identification (RFID), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. Likewise, inanother embodiment, hardware costs may be reduced as the necessaryportable devices are issued to personnel rather than being dedicated toparticular room locations. For example, the handheld computer count canaverage 1 per nurse rather than 1 per room. Since there are generallymany more rooms than nurses in a particular healthcare facility,significant cost savings (e.g., 3 to 5 fold per one embodiment of theinvention) are envisioned for the computing, wireless communication andbar code scanning hardware.

In another embodiment, costs are further reduced by displaying the wasteitem information on the screen of the handheld computer. The user canthen place the item in the appropriate conventional waste container.Under such embodiments, where each nurse or other individual responsiblefor discarding waste must be equipped with his or her own handheldcomputer, the cost of the automated container array are avoided. Someembodiments also allow leveraging existing handheld computer hardware,if used, by placing Eco-Rex™ or other drug information software on amulti-purpose handheld computer, such as those used for barcodemedication administration. A handheld device is particularlyadvantageous in certain embodiments because it permits the use of wastecontainers situated within, coupled to, or in communication with a wallunit. Wall units used in conjunction with handhelds may be moreeconomical and cost-effective for certain healthcare institutions.

In some embodiments, handheld devices may facilitate disposal of wasteitems by indicating to the user, via a display, the closest disposallocation for that particular waste item. For example, in one embodiment,a user may use his or her handheld device to scan a medical waste itemwhile in a patient's room. In one embodiment, the handheld device andthe facility may be equipped with the appropriate wireless technology toenable the system to determine the current location of the user. Thus,the display on the handheld device may be configured to locate theclosest suitable waste container capable of handling the particularwaste item. In other embodiments, the system may use level sensingand/or container sensing means to direct the user to the appropriatewaste container. The handheld system may be well-suited to trackmultiple features of drug administration and/or personnel. For example,if handheld units are associated with a specific individual, theinstitution may be able to monitor drug administration and disposal onan individual basis. Whether handheld or not, some embodiments of thepresent invention may be particularly useful for monitoring thepercentage of hospital drugs that are properly disposed.

Container Sensing

One feature of some embodiments of the invention is the ability toautomatically detect containers. Knowledge of whether or not a containeris present allows the device to disable a bay that is not populated witha container. In another embodiment, each container is also provided witha machine-readable pattern that is applied to the container surface by alabel or the like. One embodiment of different machine-readable patternsfor containers is shown in FIG. 26.

In one embodiment, when a bay is empty, the machine will know not todirect waste to that bay. However, when a bay is occupied, the device,using the information provided by the machine-readable pattern, willcorrectly identify the container and direct the waste accordingly.

In another embodiment, containers can be “hot-swapped,” (e.g., changedfrom one bay to another during use, and the device will register theorder or position of the containers and/or container positions. In oneembodiment, the system instantly registers the container mix and/orcontainer positions.

In one embodiment in which the device is capable of identifyingcontainers, usage information can be collected and used to implement ause-fee based payment schedule.

In another embodiment, the usage information can be used to detectimproper or unauthorized disposal of waste into the containers bycomparing the accumulated machine usage data to corresponding dataretained by the particular facility (e.g., sales figures). Anotheradvantage of some embodiments involves the ability to track containerchange out, storage time, and usage information.

In one embodiment, the containers are manufactured using common toolingtechniques known in the art and injection moldings that are made with asingle color (e.g., white). Container types may be distinguished forhuman recognition using color coded labels. In other embodiments,specialized tooling is used. In yet another embodiment, containers aremanufactured with one or more special distinguishing characteristics,including color, size, shape, material, codes, etc.

In one embodiment, labels are used in conjunction with the containers.Optionally, the labels may also contain the above mentionedmachine-readable patterns to allow machine recognition.

In one embodiment, the container labels (e.g., adhesive labels) may alsoinclude optional serialization that would permit tracking of the wasteitems placed into a specific container. Consequently, a container canlater be identified by its serial number and tracked on a computer.Further, this information can optionally be used to print a manifestdescribing the contents of a given container. This is especially helpfulsince regulatory authorities often require a manifest to be placed onwaste containers. Presently, these requirements are sometimes met by“over manifesting” (e.g., listing all possible types of waste that maybe discarded in the container). However, as regulation of such wastebecomes more stringent, this practice may be disallowed in the future.In addition, some embodiments of the invention use serialized containersthat provide an elegant method of detailed container manifesting.

In yet another embodiment, the number of times a particular reusablecontainer has been used will be tracked. One advantage of such atracking system is to aid users in determining when a reusable containeris approaching the end of its life cycle. This is particularly usefulfor containers that may be reused for only a predetermined number oftimes.

Manual Input System for Additional Waste Characteristics (e.g., NotEmpty/Empty Sharp/Not-Sharp)

In some embodiments of the invention, the system determines one or morecharacteristics of the item that is to be sorted or disposed. In oneembodiment, the system incorporates a manual input system that promptsthe user to indicate information regarding certain waste itemcharacteristics that may not be automatically detectable by the system.For example, in some embodiments, the system may query a user as towhether the waste item is empty or not-empty. This distinction can beimportant as waste items that are not empty (e.g., those that stillcontain a volume of bulk chemistry) pose a greater risk of groundwatercontamination if landfilled. For example, drugs on the EPA P-list mustbe triple-rinsed before they are allowed into a public solid wastedisposal facility. The user prompt may occur either prior to orfollowing the scanning of the waste item for a determination of theNational Drug Code (NDC) number. Further, the user may be prompted toprovide this information in one of several ways. For example, the usermay be queried using either a visual instruction or a voice command.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the system interacts with theuser to determine whether the item to be disposed contains a needle, andtherefore, should be handled as bio-hazardous waste. For example, thesystem prompts the user, by one of several means, to indicate whether asharps item is being disposed. In some embodiments, a visual instructionor voice command is used to prompt the user to indicate suchinformation. In most hospitals, because a needle is assumed to have beenin contact with the bodily fluids of a patient, it is treated asinfectious. Such items are referred to as “bio-hazardous” by labpersonnel and as “regulated medical waste” by waste haulers. Thus, apreliminary determination as to whether a particular waste itemqualifies as a sharps determines whether the item needs to be handled asinfectious. In one embodiment, if the waste item is an empty sharp, itwould normally be directed to the “red sharps” waste stream. If thewaste item is a non-empty sharp, then it must be handled according tothe chemical risk, possibly ending up in a container with mixed medicaland hazardous waste. Thus, disposal costs of the waste may be influencedby such preliminary qualifications. Proper handling may result inlowering of disposal costs, added safety for personnel, and an increasedsensitivity for the environment.

Waste Sorting Decision Matrix

In one embodiment of the invention, the system for sorting wastecomprises a computer equipped with one or more software applications anda database system that control the handling of each identified NDC. Inone embodiment, the system could be enabled to identify the specificprompts and actions for each of the approximately 135,000 drugs in theNDC database. In an alternative embodiment, the actions are grouped intoapproximately two-dozen different handling procedures. In thisembodiment, the database only needs to associate the NDC with a coderepresenting the corresponding procedure. A separate database can thenbe used to define the details for prompts and actions associated witheach waste group. This classification simplifies processing and databasemaintenance. One of skill in the art will understand that the number ofhandling procedure classes may vary in order to facilitate processing.

In one embodiment, the sorting system comprises a computer that isprogrammed to operate as a state machine. A state machine is a conceptoriginated by Turing and is sometimes called Finite State Automata or aTuring machine. A state machine remains in a known condition or stateuntil a specific set of inputs causes a transition to a new state. Foreach state, a finite library of subsequent states is possible based on afinite library of input sets. In one embodiment, the computer has astate for each class of waste. Subsequent state transitions are invokedfor various flags, as described below.

2-Button Action File

In some embodiments, the sorting system uses a manual input system inconjunction with a waste item identification device to further enhancethe disposal of waste. For example, in one embodiment, the sortingsystem uses a 2-button action file to determine prompts and action stepsfor each type of item scanned. Questions are prompted sequentially, andthus, require the sustained attention of the user on the display and/orkeypad to provide the necessary answers or to follow the necessaryinstructions. Under this approach, the system uses only two buttons,which may be incorporated into a low-cost textual display, such as analphanumeric LCD having as few as one line of text. In addition,questions to the user can be worded for a yes/no answer. In a moreelaborate embodiment, a graphical display may be used. The graphicaldisplay may even be color, such as a small computer monitor.

In one embodiment, the keys can be 2 dedicated buttons or may be softkeys on a low cost text display. FIG. 27 provides examples of a 2-buttonaction file. FIG. 28 a provides an example of a 2-button keyboard anddisplay indicating a first prompt requiring a yes/no response. FIG. 28 bprovides an example of a 2-button keyboard and display indicating asecond prompt requiring a yes/no response.

4-Button Concept

In one embodiment, the 2-button prompt concept is modified tosimultaneously obtain information regarding more than one inquiry, thusavoiding “menu layering,” e.g., sequentially presenting menus. Variousembodiments of the 4-button concept are feasible. For example, pairs ofbuttons serve to distinguish between “sharps” and “non-sharps”and“empty” and “not empty” in respective quadrants. Questions can betextual or graphical and can be color coded to enhance the userinterface. In one embodiment, the buttons can be physical switch keyswith permanent nomenclature (e.g., silk-screened). However, the buttonsmay also be represented by electrically activated annunciators or astouch screen zones of a high resolution display.

In one embodiment, once familiar with using a particular machine, a usercan go to the keypad as the item is being scanned and select from thefour available selections without waiting for the prompt, thereby savingtime.

First 4-Button Graphics

FIG. 30 a illustrates one embodiment of a switch arrangement thatutilizes four graphic images. Such a design can be used tosimultaneously obtain key information from the user. In FIG. 30 a, thetwo left buttons are for sharps, while the two right buttons are fornon-sharps. In addition, the two top buttons are for empty waste items,while the two bottom buttons are for non-empty waste items. Therefore,if the waste item is a sharps and is empty, the user should select thetop, left button.

4-Button Action File

In one embodiment, a 4-button action file is used to determine promptsand action steps for each type of item scanned. Questions to the userare prompted simultaneously, and thus making it easier for the user torespond. The keys can be fixed or represented on a monochrome or a colorgraphics display. Moreover, keys can be implemented using 4 dedicatedbuttons or with 4 soft keys (e.g., on a low cost text display). Examplesof a 4-button action file are provided in FIG. 29.

Second 4-Button Graphics

One of skill in the art will understand that several graphic designs canbe used in accordance with several of the embodiments disclosed herein.For example, FIG. 30 b shows a second design for a switch arrangementusing four graphic images specifically designed to obtain informationrelated to whether a waste item is or is not a sharps and whether awaste item is or is not empty.

Software Flags (Modes of Operation)

In some embodiments, the user (or another entity) can defineconfiguration settings or “flags” for the device which change the entrypoint into the Action File and, in one embodiment, can increase thenumber of items in the Action File. Effectively, this permits a user toalter the system's mode of operation. For instance, if an embodimentincludes the use of a cost/eco flag, there may be two lines in theAction File (e.g., one to handle waste as the most cost effective routeand another to handle waste in the most ecologically conscious route).However, if the method of disposal were to be the same regardless of thesetting of the flag, there may be only one item in the Action file. Inan alternate embodiment, the Action File can have two items that areidentical. Examples of several flags (or modes of operation) aredescribed below.

COST-ECO Flag

In one embodiment, a “COST-ECO” flag is used. Implementing a COST-ECOflag may permit a hospital to specify a level of concern for wastedisposal. If the hospital specifies the COST setting, the deviceoperates in a manner that satisfies all regulatory and other legalrequirements at the lowest cost. In practice, this can mean landfillingitems with multiple toxic ingredients because they do not qualify ashazardous under Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). UnderRCRA regulations, medical waste is considered hazardous only if itcontains an active ingredient on one of the EPA lists (e.g., P-list,U-list, or D-list).

Alternatively, the ECO flag emphasizes greater concern for theenvironment and shows a willingness by the facility to spend more moneyfor the potential environmental benefit. When the ECO flag is set, thedevice assigns multi-ingredient waste items, endocrine disruptors,estrogen mimics, and other high risk waste items into recommended wastestreams that exceed the minimum regulatory and legal requirements.

Waste Hauler Flag

Certain waste haulers are licensed to handle bio-hazardous (regulatedmedical waste or RMW) waste, while others are licensed to handle toxic(hazardous) waste. In one embodiment, a flag may be used that allowssorting into different containers to accommodate the available wastehaulers requirements. Thus, it may possible to prevent filling acontainer with a particular type of waste if the waste hauler cannothandle such waste.

POTW (Publicly Owned Treatment Works) Flag

Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) facilities may or may not be setup to handle and/or treat certain wastewater contaminants. Thus, in oneembodiment, a POTW flag may be used. By adding a POTW flag to each itemin the database, it is possible to identify whether a waste item can bedirectly discharged into a particular sewer system.

Jump Drive and Barcode for Configuration

In one embodiment, the sorting system will receive updates to thedatabase to account for new drugs, repackaged drugs, admixtures, and thelike. In one embodiment, the carts are not hardwired to an Ethernetconnection port (CAT-5) and, thus, instead rely on a wirelesscommunication to connect with the hospital's or facility's network(e.g., intranet). Since data security is a foremost concern in hospitalsand other healthcare facilities, in one embodiment, new devices may beprecluded from accessing the network until properly authenticated. Inone embodiment, as shown in FIG. 49, one or more firewall systems areused to enhance a facility's data security networks. Typically, hospitaldevices conform to the Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol(LEAP) standard. In order for a device to become LEAP authenticated, ittypically needs to present certain keys. On a general-purpose computer,it is possible for the system administrator of a particular network tomanually enter these keys (e.g., via keyboard and monitor). For thoseembodiments of the invention that are particularly cost-effective, lessexpensive, special-purpose, “headless” (no display or keyboard) devicescan be used. Thus, alternative methods of supplying the necessaryauthentication codes are used.

For example, in one embodiment, the authentication codes are insertedduring the manufacturing process. However, this may not be possible ifthe customer is not known at the time of manufacture. Another methodinvolves the temporary connection to a keyboard and display device inorder to enter the codes. A third method uses a laptop computerconnection for assigning codes. A fourth method is to temporarily dockthe collection device to an Ethernet port and load the codes fromanother computer. These approaches, although usable in accordance withseveral embodiments of the invention, may require knowledge that isunavailable at a particular point in time, or may require unreasonablehardware intervention. A preferred method of loading the LEAPauthentication codes is to insert a flash or thumb drive into aUniversal Serial Bus (USB) port to download the codes. The USB drivecould also be used for other computer setup tasks.

In one of the several embodiments that use a barcode reader, the systememploys authentication codes to a series of barcodes that may bepresented to the scanner sequentially. Thus the device will read one ormore barcodes and use the information to set up LEAP authentication. Forthose embodiments that do not use a bar code reader, other alternativesmay be used (e.g., RFID, magnetic card, etc.).

Repackaged Drugs and Admixture Sorting

Several embodiments of the invention are adapted to receive waste frommultiple sources. In one scenario, three main classes of pharmaceuticalitems are expected to reach the collection devices that are located in apoint of care patient area. These can be described as (i) pass-throughdrugs; (ii) repackaged drugs; and (iii) admixtures.

Pass-through drugs are drugs that reach the point of use in the originalpackage as provided by the manufacturer. Examples include I.V. bags,syringes, inhalants, patches, and all single use items such as pills,liquids, creams, or others. According to one embodiment, once the itemis used and presented to the sorting system, a barcode on the waste itemcan be easily read and decoded since the system's database shouldcontain information on all of the roughly 135,000 known FDA registereddrugs. Ideally, the barcode for these pass-through drugs will be (or maycontain) the FDA registered NDC number.

Repackaged drugs are those that are received from the manufacturer in afirst package, and are transferred to a second package for distributionto the point of care patient area. The repackaging may take place in apharmacy, another location within the hospital, or an off-sitecommercial repackaging house. Examples of commonly repackaged drugsinclude bulk packaged pills, powders, or liquids that usually must berepackaged into smaller portions or “unit dose” packages fordistribution. Repackaging facilitates handling, billing, and verifyingcorrect medication administration.

The package for repackaged drugs can be bar-coded to be recognized byembodiments of the invention. Typically, it is the hospital'sresponsibility to design the barcode that accompanies repackaged goods.For example, the selected barcode may be the NDC number of the largerpackage. Although this “borrowed” barcode correctly identifies thedrug's chemistry, it is not entirely correct, because it does notprovide package code information as does a full NDC code. By changingthe package and keeping the barcode, a portion of the barcode becomestechnically incorrect. However, it is still usable by some embodimentsof the sorting system and is one of the preferred barcodes for thesecond package of a repackaged drug.

The hospital may also generate a site-unique barcode for the secondpackage. In one embodiment, the site-unique barcode typically startswith an “L” or “99” to distinguish it from manufacturer NDC codes. Inorder for embodiments of the sorting system to dispose an item with asite-unique barcode, communication between the collection device and thepharmacy is preferred. In one embodiment, the pharmacy provides thecollection device with an NDC code with which to associate the barcodeappearing on the repackaged item. In one embodiment, the communicationmay occur in real-time, when the item is presented for disposal.However, real-time communication may slow the operation of thecollection device, as the pharmacy computer may be busy or unacceptablyslow due to authentication and encryption requirements or communicationtraffic. In one preferred embodiment, the necessary communicationbetween the collection device and the pharmacy occurs before the item isdiscarded (e.g., by a broadcast message from the pharmacy at the timethe order is filled and sent to the floor).

Communications of this sort often take the form of a Health Level 7(HL7) message. HL7 is an industry standard communication scheme forinformation transfer among diverse hospital systems such as billing,admissions, patient records, medication administration and the like. TheHL7 formatted message will associate the NDC of the waste item contentswith the barcode on the package. In one preferred embodiment, the HL7message directed to the sorting system will safeguard patient-specificinformation in compliance with all privacy requirements, such as HIPAA(Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

In addition to pass-through and repackaged drugs, pharmacies oftencreate custom recipes containing multiple pharmaceutical ingredients.These “admixtures” are generally labeled with a site-specific barcoderather than the NDC code of their ingredients. In one embodiment, thesite-unique barcode is decoded. In one preferred embodiment, the sortingsystem is instructed to sort the admixture waste via an HL7 message orthe like. Unlike a single repackaged item, an admixture message willassociate the barcode with multiple NDC numbers contained in theadmixture being discarded. In one embodiment, once the sorting system isin possession of the list of NDC numbers, it can quickly identify thecontainer in which the waste item should be placed, Such a determinationis based on individual waste stream codes for the various constituentingredients in the waste item. FIG. 31 illustrates a flowchart of oneembodiment of the decision logic related to the identification andclassification of the waste items.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that the flowchart in FIG. 31shows one example of how the waste sorting system can handle admixturewaste in real-time.

On Screen Waste Stream Display

In one embodiment, a display is provided to indicate selectedinformation, including, but is not limited to, the NDC decoded from thebarcode on the package, the chemistry formulation derived from thedatabase lookup (which would match that listed on the package), thewaste composition and categorization determined by the machine (whichshould match the open door), and/or the reasons for the particular wastedecision.

Restricted Access Containers

In one embodiment of the invention, the present invention compriseswaste receptacles that are adapted to restrict access to medical orpharmaceutical waste, once that waste has been deposited in thereceptacle.

In one embodiment, a receptacle for medical or pharmaceutical waste isprovided. In some embodiments, the container is adapted to restrictaccess to disposed waste. FIGS. 36 through 48H illustrate some of thefeatures of some of the embodiments discussed herein. In one embodiment,the container comprises a lid 82 formed in a V-shaped cross section,with circular outer edges. In a further embodiment, a shield 26 having acircular cross section, wherein the shield is positioned at theperimeter of the arc formed by said lid 82 is also provided. In yetanother embodiment, a latch assembly 24 is provided. In one embodiment,the container comprises a V-shaped lid, one or more shields, and one ormore latch assemblies.

In another embodiment, a restricted access container for medical orpharmaceutical waste is provided wherein the container comprises a lidhaving substantially circular outer edges, wherein the lid is rotatablyoperated so that the circular outer edges remain at a constant radiusfrom the axis in all positions, a blocking means adapted to block accessto waste contents in all lid positions, and a latch assembly.Embodiments of latch assemblies adapted for use with containers and lidsare illustrated in FIGS. 45-48H.

In one embodiment, the lid is adapted to restrict, exclude, reduce, orminimize access to deposited waste when in the closed position. In apreferred embodiment, the lid is further adapted to restrict, exclude,reduce, or minimize access to deposited waste during the opening cycle.Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the waste receptacle has a safetyfeature that restricts (or minimizes) access to disposed medical orpharmaceutical waste while the receptacle is being opened. Thus, in oneembodiment the container permits disposal of additional waste whilesimultaneously restricting access to waste that has been previouslydisposed.

Some embodiments of the present invention can also be used forreceptacles containing materials other than medical or pharmaceuticalwaste. Thus, in some embodiments, the restricted access lid can be usedwith non-medical, non-pharmaceutical containers, holders, or vessels.

In one embodiment, a rotary level sensor operates in conjunction with arotary lid. One function of the lid, according to several embodiments ofthe invention, is to open upon command from the electronics, allowing anitem of hazardous waste to be deposited.

A second function of the lid, according to several embodiments of theinvention, is that the open lid is easily recognizable by the user, fromamong an array of other container lids, intuitively directing theirattention to the open container, thus avoiding the need for lights orother indicating means.

A third function of the lid, according to several embodiments of theinvention, is to exclude access to the container contents by the user orother personnel, at all times. The lid, according to some embodiments,may be adapted to accomplish none, one, two, or all three of thesefunctions.

In one embodiment, the restricted access safety feature comprises a lidformed in a V-shaped cross section, with circular outer edges. The lidis rotatably operated so that the circular outer edges remain at aconstant radius from the axis in all positions, including open, closed,and in between open and closed. The V-shaped lid forms an approximately135 degrees angle, and its diameter is such that the resulting openingis large enough to accept the largest anticipated waste item. In oneembodiment, the lid motion is also limited to approximately 135 degrees.One of skill in the art will understand that lids of other shapes andother angles can also be used in accordance with several embodiments ofthe present invention.

In one embodiment, a shielding means, or shield, is also provided. Forexample, in one embodiment, a shield that is circular in cross sectionis placed at the perimeter of the arc described by the lid during aportion of its motion. In one embodiment, the lid, in combination withthe shield, blocks access to the contents during some or most operatingpositions. In a preferred embodiment, the lid, in combination with theshield, blocks access to the contents during all operating positions.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 36-48H, a latch assembly isprovided. In one embodiment, a latch assembly is part of the equipmentand mates to a container during use. In a preferred embodiment, thecontainer is formed with control rods extending outward from one end tomate with openings in the latch assembly. One control rod is tied to thelid, and the other is tied to the bar. Rotational position informationof the lid and bar is transferred to concentric inner and outer rings,which track the rotational motion of the lid and bar. The inner andouter ring are each supplied with a position indicator andopto-interruptor for detecting a predetermined position. In a preferredembodiment, the lid detector is set to indicate when the lid is closed,and the bar detector is set to detect when the bar is fully open. In oneembodiment, each ring is supplied with a torsion spring to provideopening force.

FIG. 48A illustrates one embodiment of a container 380 configured toreceive waste items as disclosed herein. As shown, a lid assembly 382can be positioned along the upper, open end of the container 380 toselectively allow access to an interior portion of the container 380.According to some embodiments, one or more portions of the lid assembly382 are configured to open or otherwise move so as to selectivelyprovide access to the interior of the container 380. For example, thelid assembly 382 can include a flipper member 384 that helps rotate orotherwise move one or more portions of the assembly 382.

With continued reference to FIG. 48A, the flipper member 384 can extendto one or more ends of the lid assembly 382. In the illustratedembodiment, the flipper member 384 or other portion of the lid assembly382 includes a coupling 386 on each of its ends. As discussed in greaterdetail herein, such couplings 386 can be sized, shaped and otherwiseconfigured to engage a drive mechanism or other device that mechanicallycontrols the movement of the flipper member 384 or other portion of thelid assembly 382. For example, the lid assembly 382 can include a bosscoupling 386 or any other type of female or male coupling 386. In thedepicted embodiment, the coupling 386 includes one or more alignmentslots 387 with which a corresponding portion of a drive mechanism can beengaged (FIG. 48B). According to some arrangements, rotating thecoupling 386 moves the lid assembly 382 between “OPEN” and “CLOSED”positions (or one or more intermediate positions between fully open andfully closed positions).

FIGS. 48B and 48C illustrate perspective views of a drive mechanism 400mounted to a coupling 386 of a flipper member along one or more sides ofthe lid assembly 382. The drive mechanism 400 can be attached to thecontainer 380 and/or lid assembly 382 at one or more locations. Forexample, in one embodiment, the drive mechanism 400 engages only theboss or other coupling 386 of the flipper member 384 or some otherportion of the lid assembly 382. However, in other arrangements, thedrive mechanism 400 may also be secured to the lid assembly 382 and/orthe container 380.

Different views of one embodiment of a drive mechanism 400 configured toengage and selectively move a lid assembly 382 are illustrated in FIGS.48D-48I. As shown in FIGS. 48D and 48I, the drive mechanism 400 caninclude a shaft 408 or other elongated member that extends at leastpartially through the mechanism body. The protruding end 410 of theshaft 408 can be shaped, sized and otherwise adapted to engage with andsecure into a coupling 386 of the flipper member or other portion of thelid assembly 382. For example, as shown, the protruding end 410 can begenerally cone-shaped.

With continued reference to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 48I, adrive coupling 412 can be positioned around the shaft 408 at or near theend that engages the coupling 386 of the flipper member. In someembodiments, the drive coupling 412 comprises one or more alignmentmembers 413 that are positioned adjacent to the protruding end 410 ofthe shaft 408. Such alignment members 413 can be configured to fitwithin corresponding slots 387 or other members of the coupling 386located on the flipper member or other portion of the lid assembly 382.Although in the illustrated embodiment it is depicted as being generallycone-shaped, the protruding end 410 can have any other shape, size orconfiguration, as desired or required by a particular application.

As illustrated in FIGS. 48D, 48G and 48I, a centering spring 414 can beplaced around the shaft 408 and within the drive coupling 412. Such acentering spring 414 can help maintain the shaft 408 along a desiredorientation (e.g., at or near the centerline of the drive coupling 412),especially when the protruding end 410 is being inserted within orremoved from the corresponding coupling 386 of the flipper member 384 oranother portion of the lid assembly 382. Further, in some embodiments,the drive mechanism 400 comprises a drive coupling spring 428 or otherresilient member configured to urge the drive coupling 412 in thedirection of the protruding end 410. Therefore, both the shaft 408 andthe drive coupling 412 can be resiliently biased toward a correspondingcoupling 328 located on a flipper member or other portion of a lidassembly 382.

With continued reference to FIG. 48E, the shaft 408 can be mechanicallycoupled to one or more gear assemblies 420. In the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 48D-48I, the drive mechanism 400 comprises a gearsupport 422 that is adapted to secure the gear assembly 420 to the framemember 404. As shown, the drive mechanism 400 can also include a torsionspring 424 or another resilient device that is mechanically connected tothe gear assembly 420. In some embodiments, using its rotationaltension, such a torsion spring 424 can be configured to rotate theadjacent gear assembly 420 to which it is coupled. In one embodiment,the rotational tension force that the torsion spring 424 exerts on thegear assembly 420 is increased when the lid assembly 382 to which thedrive mechanism 400 is coupled is closed.

In some embodiments, the position of the gear assembly 420 can be lockedor released to selectively permit or restrict rotation of the shaft 408to which the gear assembly 420 is mechanically connected. For example,in the arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 48D-48I, the drive mechanism 400includes a gear release member 430. The gear release member 430 caninclude a lip 432 or other feature that is configured to engage acorresponding structure 434 of the gear assembly 420. Accordingly, whenthe lip 432 of the gear release member 430 is positioned against thecorresponding structure 434 or other surface of the gear assembly 420,the gear assembly 420 is not permitted to rotate. Consequently, theshaft 408 and the drive coupling 412 are not permitted to rotate withinthe lid assembly coupling 386 to which they are engaged.

Alternatively, when the lip 432 of the gear release member 430 is movedaway (e.g., lifted) from the gear assembly 420, the gear assembly 420 isfree to move. Thus, the shaft 408 of the drive mechanism can bepermitted to rotate (as a result of the rotational tension force appliedto it by the adjacent torsion spring 424) in order to selectively openor otherwise change the position of the lid assembly. In the illustratedembodiment, the opposite end of the gear release member 430 is attachedto a movable stem 444. The drive mechanism 400 can include a solenoid440 or other position control device adapted to selectively move thestem 444 generally along a vertical axis. This can cause the end of thegear release member 430 to also move up or down. If the gear releasemember 430 is connected to the frame member 404 at a center pivot point446, an upward movement of the stem 444 can cause the lip 432 of thegear release member 430 to move in an opposite direction (e.g.,downwardly), and vice versa. Thus, the solenoid 440 can be used tocontrol whether the gear release member 430 is engaged to the gearassembly 420. In some embodiments, a spring 448 or other resilientmember is used to urge the gear release member 430 into contact with thegear assembly 420 when the solenoid 440 is not activated. This helpsensure that the gear assembly 420 and the protruding end 410 are notpermitted to rotate when electrical power is lost (e.g., fail safeprotection).

In addition, the drive mechanism 400 can comprise an optical switch 450or other position detection device or feature. An optical switch 450 canhelp determine the orientation of the gear release member 430 at aparticular moment in time. Such information can be used to control theoperation of the drive mechanism 400 and/or the lid assembly 382 towhich the drive mechanism 400 is attached.

In some embodiments, when a user manually (e.g., by pressing a button)or automatically (e.g., by scanning a waste item) causes the lidassembly 382 to open, the solenoid can be energized to move the lip 432of the gear release member 430 away from the corresponding structure 434of the gear assembly 420. Accordingly, the torsion spring 424 is free toexert a rotational force on the gear assembly 420, causing the gearassembly 420 and the shaft 408 to rotate. If the protruding end 410 ofthe shaft 408 is engaged within a corresponding coupling 386 of theflipper member or other portion of the lid assembly 382, the lidassembly 382 can open to permit the user to discard one or more wasteitems within the container 380. After the waste items have beendeposited within the container 380, the user can manually close the lidassembly 382. As discussed, in some embodiments, this causes the shaft408 and the gear assembly 420 to rotate. In turn, this causes thetorsional force within the torsional spring 424 to increase, as thespring 424 is rotated into a further coiled position. In otherembodiments, one or more external motors or other devices are used torotate the shaft 408 in one or both directions. For example, a motor orother actuator mechanically coupled to the shaft 408 can be used torotate the shaft 408 when the lid assembly 382 is automatically closed.

Liners for Waste Containers

As discussed above, one or more containers used in accordance withseveral embodiments of the invention can be constructed from resilientmaterial, flexible material, durable reusable material, lightweightmaterial that can be reusable or disposable, or liner-type material. Thecontainer may or may not contain a separate liner. In some embodiments,the container is a pliable bag-like material that may be considered aliner itself.

In one embodiment, removable liners extend the life of the containers.Further, in some embodiments, liners can be manufactured, stored,handled, transported and/or maintained at lower costs than containers.Thus, the use of container liners can provide desirable cost savings andother benefits.

The liners and the various systems and features associated with them aredescribed in the context of a waste sorting and disposal station andapparatus because they have particular utility in this context. However,the liners and methods described herein, as well as their varioussystems and features, can be used in other contexts as well, such as,for example, but without limitation, other containers and enclosuresthat can benefit from an internal protective member or layer.

The liners can be manufactured from one or more flexible, rigid and/orsemi-rigid materials, such as, for example, polyethylene, high molecularweigh polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate,polyester, polycarbonate, nylon, polystyrene, epoxy, acrylic, foammaterial, polymers and other thermoplastic materials, etc. In otherembodiments, the liners can be manufactured from other synthetic and/ornatural materials. For example, the liners may comprise fabric, textile,rubber, paper or wood based products (e.g., cardboard) and/or any othermaterial. These materials can also be used to construct containerswithout separate liners. In embodiments where liners comprise more thanone layer, the layers can comprise different materials. Alternatively, asingle layer can comprise different materials.

The thermoplastic liners can be manufactured using one or more moldingmethods, such as, for example, injection molding, blow molding,compression molding, vacuum forming, thermoforming, thermomolding, blowmolding or the like. Alternatively, liners can be cast, rolled orotherwise manufactured into desired sizes, shapes, thicknesses andconfigurations. For example, liners can manufactured from joiningseparate sheets of plastic, fabric or other material using adhesive,stitching or other attachment methods.

The liners can be configured to withstand the loads, forces, stresses,impacts and any other potentially damaging threat to which they may beexposed. For example, the material, size, thickness, other dimensions,manufacturing and/or assembly details and other properties and featuresof a liner can be designed to adequately support the weight of thematerials container therein, to withstand tears, punctures and othertypes of damage, to prevent water or other liquids from leaking into orout of the liner and the like. In one embodiment, the liner has athickness and/or is manufactured from materials that would enable it towithstand puncture forces by sharps, broken glass or other jagged items.In other embodiments, the liners are configured to retain theirstructural and functional integrity in the presence of liquids,moisture, corrosive materials and the like.

In some embodiments, the liner has substantially the same shape and/orsize as a container or enclosure into which the liner is configured tobe placed. The liner may be oversized, the same size, or smaller withrespect to the enclosure. The shape of the liner and the enclosure maybe different or similar. The liner may be sprayed into an enclosure. Inother embodiments, the liner may be coated to impart functionalproperties, such as moisture resistance. In some embodiments, a doubleliner system with a leakage collection system and/or a leak detectionsystem is used. Liner comprising clay may be used in some embodiments.

In several embodiments, the liner has a width of in the range of about 5inches to 50 inches, a height in the range of about 5 inches to 50inches, a depth in the range of about 1 inch to 40 inches, and athickness in the range of about 1 to 10 mil (e.g., 2 to 6 mil). Forexample, in one embodiment, the liner has a width of 15 inches, a heightof 12 or 25 inches, a depth of 7 inches and a thickness of 4 mil. Eachlayer of a multilayered liner can be dimensioned as above, or can bedimensioned proportionally to the number of layers, such that the totaldimension of the entire layer is within the range indicated above. Insome embodiments, the liners may be smaller or larger than indicatedabove. The thickness of the liner may be about or greater than 10 mil,20 mil, 50 mil, or 1 inch in several embodiments.

In some embodiments, the liners can comprise two or more layers, whichmay or may not be attached to one another. The liner layers can bejoined, either completely or partially, using one or more attachmentmethods, such as, for example, using adhesives, stitching, fasteners orthe like. Further, the liners can include an exterior and/or an interiorcoating. In some embodiments, a coating can be used to prevent materialsfrom sticking to or reacting with a liner surface. In one embodiment,the liner comprises 2 layers. In another embodiment, the liners comprise3, 4, or 5 layers. In one embodiment, at least one of the layers (e.g.,an outer layer) may comprise a machine identifier or other key or code.In some embodiments, the inner layer is disposable, while the outerlayer is reusable. The layers of a liner may have different properties.For example, the inner liner may be more pliable and have moistureresistance. The outer layer may have more structure integrity andrigidity. An outer layer or an entire liner may be removable ornon-removable.

In some embodiments, the container comprises a reusable receptacleportion and a disposable liner. In other embodiments, the containercomprises a receptacle and a liner that is attached to the receptacle,removably coupled to the receptacle, or separate from the receptacle.

Alternatively, a coating can help prevent the passage or migration ofliquids, gases or other substances through or into the liner. Thecoatings can include one or more layers of a mixture that is configuredto adhere to the surface of the liner (e.g., paint, epoxy, binder,plastic film, etc.). In other embodiments, coatings can further improvethe strength and durability of a liner or help prevent or reduce thelikelihood of scratching, puncturing, tearing or other damage to aliner. As described in greater detail below, paint, graphics or the likecan also be placed on the liners for identification purposes.

The shape, size, dimensions, opening size and other characteristics ofthe liners can vary. In some embodiments, the shape of a liner can besubstantially similar to the shape of a container into which it may beplaced. For example, the shape of the liner can be rectangular,polygonal, cylindrical, conical, round, oval, frusto-conical,frusto-spherical or the like. Alternatively, the liner can be configuredso that its shape can be expanded to match the interior of a container.Thus, the liner may comprise a flexible material, such as athermoplastic bag or sac, whose expanded volume is approximately thesame or larger than the interior volume of a container into which it maybe placed. In other arrangements, such a flexible liner, when expanded,can comprise a volume that is smaller than the interior volume of thecontainer into which it may be placed.

FIG. 51 illustrates one embodiment of a container 200A having arelatively large top opening 204A. In such embodiments, a liner (notshown) can be placed within the interior of the container 200A throughthe top opening 204A. As discussed, the liner can be semi-rigid orrigid, and its exterior shape can be configured to at least partiallycorrespond with an interior shape of a container. In other embodiments,the entire liner or portions thereof can have a different shape than thecontainer into which it may be placed. In yet other embodiments, theliner can be flexible so that its shape may substantially conform to theinterior shape of the container as the items are deposited into theliner.

Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 52, the container 200B into whicha liner (not shown) may be placed can have a smaller opening 204B. Insuch embodiments, placement of the liner into the container 200B and/orremoval of the liner from the container 200B may be complicated by therelatively small size of the opening 204B. Thus, the container 200B maycomprise one or more other accessways, in addition to a main opening204B, to facilitate the placement and/or removal of the liner into andout of the container 200B. For example, in FIG. 52, an upper portion ofthe container 200B can be removed from a lower portion of the container200B along line 206. The upper and lower portions of the container 200Bcan be secured together using one or more latches 208, hinges or otherattachment members. In one embodiment, the container may include agasket, an O ring or other compression member along a split interface(e.g., split along line 206 in FIG. 52) to ensure that the containerremains completely or substantially leak-proof. It will be appreciatedthat a container can be configured to split along one or more differentplanes. For example, the container can include a generally verticalsplit design.

The liner can be designed to be securely maintained within a containerusing one or more methods. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 53A, an upper portion 234A of the liner 232A can comprise a hookdesign configured to fit over the top of the container 230A. The hookdesign can be continuous around the entire perimeter of the liner 232A.Alternatively, the hook design can be intermittently positioned around atop portion of the liner 232A. Preferably, the portion of the liner 232Acomprising the hook design can be sufficiently rigid so that the liner232A securely remains grasped to the container 230A as items are placedwithin the liner 232A. Thus, such hook member designs can be used evenfor flexible or less flexible liners, so long as the upper hook portionhas adequate rigidity and strength.

It will be appreciated that other types of attachment or support memberscan be used to maintain the position of a liner relative to a containerinto which it is configured to be placed. For example, the liner caninclude one or more flanges, lips, clasps or other protrusion membersthat permit the liner to rest on and/or be grasped by one or moreadjacent portions of a container.

In FIG. 53B, the liner 230B can include an upper flange 232B that issized, shaped and otherwise configured to be maintain the position ofthe liner 230B relative to the container 230B. As shown, the flange 232Babuts the uppermost portion of the container wall. However, in otherembodiments, one or more flanges or other members can be positionedalong other parts of the liner so that they abut against other portionsof the container. The flange 232B may be continuously or intermittentlypositioned around a perimeter of the liner.

A hook, flange, lip, clasp or other member used to maintain the positionof the liner relative to a container can be molded as part of the linerbody or can be separately attached to it. In embodiments where the hook,flange, lip, clasp or the like is a separate member, such member may beattached to the liner using or more connection methods, such as, forexample, using glue or other adhesives, fasteners or the like.Alternatively, hooks, flanges and the like can be shaped or formed inthe liner body during a subsequent procedure, after the partial orcomplete manufacture of a liner.

As illustrated in FIGS. 53C and 53D, a liner can be received by one ormore clamping members of a container. In the embodiment depicted in FIG.53C, the liner 232C may be clamped by the container 230C. For instance,the liner 232C can be clamped by one or more portions of the containerwall. In other embodiments, the liner can be secured using a separateclamping or fastening member, either in lieu of or in addition to anyclamping features incorporated directly into the container wall. Forexample, in FIG. 53D, the container can include a movable bar 236Dwhich, when lowered, may be configured to retain at least a portion ofthe liner 232D against the wall of the container 230D. It will beappreciated that, in other embodiments, other types of members ormethods can be used to secure a liner relative to a container.

The liner can be configured to be self supporting so that it need not besupported from, connected to or grasped by any portion of the container.In such embodiments, the liner can be positioned within an interiorcavity of a container. As illustrated in FIG. 53E, such a self supportedliner 232E can be sized and shaped to generally correspond to one ormore internal surfaces of the container 230E. However, in otherembodiments, the size, shape and/or other properties of the liner can bedifferent than those of the container.

Further, one or more portions of the liner can be configured to adhereto adjacent surfaces of a container. For example, an exterior portion ofthe liner may include one or more peel-away adhesive labels which, whenexposed, can attach to an adjacent surface of the container. However, itwill be appreciated that adjoining surfaces of the liner exterior andthe container interior need not be held together using an adhesivesubstance. In some embodiments, static cling materials (e.g., vinylfilm, smooth plastic, etc.) or other non-adhesive materials can be usedto help maintain a liner in proximity to an adjacent container.

In some embodiments, liners can be configured to allow, facilitateand/or enable the level detection of waste materials placed therein. Oneor more of the level detection methods discussed herein with referenceto containers may also be applied to liners. For example, in someembodiments, fill level sensing of the liners can be performed bymeasuring the weight of the liner and/or the container in which theliner is positioned. In further embodiments, a float system can beadapted for use in determining a level of waste materials present in aliner. In yet other arrangements, optical detection devices can be usedto determine the liner level. Optical detection devices can includeultrasonic level detectors, sight glasses, light source/detector systemsand the like.

The level detection systems may be capable of determining an actuallevel of waste materials present within a liner. Alternatively, ratherthan detecting an actual level, level sensing devices and systems can beconfigured to determine whether or not waste materials are present in aliner and/or whether a particular liner level has been attained.

In other embodiments, distance measuring sensors can be used todetermine a level of materials within a liner. Such distance-measuringsensors can include SONAR, RADAR, optical distance measuring sensors andthe like. Such distance measuring sensors can be located above a lineropening to determine a “height” of materials deposited therein. However,distance-measuring devices can be situated on or near other portions ofa waste sorting and disposal device.

A waste sorting and disposal system may be equipped with a piezotransducer that is configured to determine a volume of air remaining ina liner by conducting a frequency sweep. The frequency sweep can helpdetermine the resonance of the air in the liner. Once the volume of airin the liner is known, the air volume can be subtracted from the knowntotal liner volume to obtain the volume occupied by the liner contents.

In order to enable the use of an optical level sensor such as the oneillustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19 when a liner is positioned within acontainer, the liner can comprise one or more areas that permit thepassage of light. For example, the liner can include or be manufacturedfrom a transparent or translucent material. In some embodiments, theentire liner can be manufactured from one or more such materials.Alternatively, only one or more portions of the liner can includetransparent or translucent materials.

With reference to FIG. 54, the liner 252 can comprise a window 254 orother dedicated area that is configured to permit the passage of light.The viewing window 254 can be manufactured from thermoplastic, glass,film, Plexiglas and/or any other transparent or translucent material.The window 254 may be strategically positioned along the liner surfaceto coincide with the light source and the photo detectors of the opticallevel detection system.

The level of a liner can also be determined through visual inspection bya user. Thus, a user can manually inspect the interior contents of aliner through a main opening and/or a transparent or translucent portionof the liner (e.g., liner wall, viewing window, view port, etc.). Insome embodiments, the viewing window or other transparent or translucentportion can extend substantially the entire height of the liner.

As discussed, a waste disposal and sorting system can include one ormore level sensors that comprise a bar. The bar can be configured toperiodically pass through a liner approximately at a desired “fill”level. A position indicator or other visual indicator (e.g., flag) canbe coupled to the bar, such that movement of the bar can cause movementof the indicator. In some embodiments, the waste disposal and sortingsystem can be configured to detect movement of the indicator, therebynotifying the system that the liner has reached the “fill” level.

Parameters other than weight, fill level, fill volume or the like can beused to determine if a liner is full and/or requires replacement. Forexample, in one embodiment, a sensor can be configured to detectradioactivity or other detectable parameter. Such detectors may be usedalone or in conjunction with one or more other sensors discussed herein.

After its removal from a container, a liner can be sealed so that wasteitems or other materials are securely maintained therein. One or moredifferent ways of sealing the liner may be used. In some embodiments,adhesives can be used to seal a liner. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 55, a liner 262 can comprise one or more adhesive strips 264 whichmay be configured to attach to other portions of the liner 262. Theadhesive strips 264 may include a protective peel away label 266, whichcan facilitate and/or speed up the sealing process.

Alternatively, one or more externally applied adhesive materials, suchas, for example, glue, adhesive tape and the like, can be used to seal aliner. The adhesive materials discussed herein can be applied to a linereither before or after the liner is removed from a container. Heatsealing or vacuum sealing may also be used to close or secure a liner.

In other embodiments, one or more other methods of sealing a liner canbe used, either in lieu of or in addition to the use of adhesives. Forexample, a liner may comprise a zipper, a pressure seal (e.g., a sealused in a resealable plastic storage bag), other mechanical seal and/orthe like. Preferably, the type of seal used to close a liner can besufficiently durable and resilient to prevent the unwanted opening ofthe liner during handling, transport or the like. Further, a lockingmember can be used to ensure that a zipper, sealing device or othermechanical device is not compromised. In yet other embodiments, one ormore openings of the liner can be sealed using a lid or other closuremember. The liner can comprise the lid or closure member. Alternatively,the lid or closure member can be a separate item.

One or more external closure members can be used to close a liner,either in lieu of or in addition to other sealing methods. For instance,clamps, wires, strings, tapes, cable ties and/or the like can be used.Such external closure members may be permanent or temporary. An externalclosure member can further ensure that the liner remains sealed, suchthat the interior contents are not unintentionally released.

Further, it may be desirable to place a liner within one or more othercontainers (e.g., boxes, bags, sacs, enclosures or the like) afterremoving it from a container. Such additional containers can facilitatethe handling, storage and/or transport of the waste-filled liners. Insome embodiments, the containers may be used to satisfy one or moreregulatory requirements (e.g., environmental, DOT, etc.).

The liners can be adapted so that they may be used with any otherfeature of a disposal and sorting system described herein. For example,the liners can be shaped, sized and otherwise configured so as to notinterfere with any portion of the system, such as, for example, thelids, openings, restricted access components and the like.

In addition, the liners can include any other features or properties topermit or facilitate their storage, transport or general handling. Insome embodiments, the liners can be color-coded depending on the type ofwaste or other materials contained therein. The liners may requireadditional identifying graphics or markings, either in lieu of or inaddition to color coding. For example, one or more placards can be usedto represent the hazard class(es) of materials contained within aparticular liner. Such placards, labels or other markings can helpcommunicate the hazards associated with materials contained within aparticular liner to various parties that may come into contact with it,such as, for example, healthcare facility personnel, transporters,handlers, treatment plant operators and the like. The use ofcolor-coding and/or other graphics or markings can be voluntary ormandated by regulations, laws, internal policies, contractualobligations and/or the like. Thus, any one of the containers (e.g.,liners) described herein can be tracked from one location to another byuse of electronic, machine readable or visual identifiers. Such trackingmay facilitate compliance with waste management rules and regulations.

A liner can be configured so that it can be automatically detectedand/or identified when situated within a container or another portion ofa waste disposal and sorting station. Thus, in some embodiments, linerscan comprise machine-readable codes, patterns or the like. For example,at least a portion of the liner can include one or more readable colorsor color schemes, alphanumeric codes, graphical patterns or otheridentifying marks. In other embodiments, the liners can comprise a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag, another type of wirelessidentifier, a magnetic strip or the like.

In some embodiments, liners can be “hot swapped,” e.g., moved from onecontainer to another during use while still permitting the sorting anddisposal device to register the order or position of the liners. Adevice or system can be configured to instantly register thedistribution of liners and/or containers situated within it. Thus, inone embodiment, a particular enclosure, compartment or receptacle is notassociated with a waste category until it is activated by the liner.Once the liner is removed, the enclosure, compartment or receptacle mayonce again become neutral. In other embodiments, the enclosure,compartment or receptacle remembers the waste category of the last linerit encountered, and remembers that waste category as a default.

The machine-readable code or pattern, wireless identifier or the likecan be located on, near or within any portion of the liner, such as, forexample, an interior or exterior surface, within a wall, etc. Inaddition, such codes or patterns can be included throughout the entireliner or in only a portion thereof. For example, if a machine-readableidentifier comprises a color code or a graphical pattern, such a code orpattern can be positioned on the entire exterior surface of the liner.In another embodiment, the code or pattern may be confined to a smallarea on an exterior surface of the liner. It will be appreciated that aliner can include two or more machine-readable identifiers. Withreference to FIGS. 53A and 54B, a machine-readable code, color, patternor the like can be placed on an upper portion of the liner, such as, forexample, near the hook or flange portion.

In some embodiments, the liners and/or the containers can comprise oneor more alignment or positioning members (e.g., tabs and correspondingslots, clips, etc.) to ensure that the liners have been properlysituated within a container. For example, a liner can include one ormore tabs along its exterior surface that align with corresponding slotsin the containers. This can help maintain the liner's machine readablecode, pattern or other identifier in a desired located so that it may beadequately read by a reader. Such alignment or positioning members canfurther include a method of verifying that the liner has reached adesired location, such as, for example, a positive engagement coupling,a clicking sound or the like.

A liner can be manufactured with a machine-readable identifier. In oneembodiment, an RFID tag can be inserted into a wall of a liner duringthe manufacturing process. In other arrangements, a 3-dimensionalpattern can be molded or shaped into a surface of the liner.Alternatively, the identifier can be separately attached or added to theliner. For instance, a machine-readable pattern can be printed onto anadhesive label, which then may be applied to a liner surface.

A machine-readable identifier can be read or otherwise detected by oneor more readers located within, on or near a waste sorting and disposaldevice. For example, an interior portion of a container can comprise areader configured to detect a color, graphical pattern or anotheridentifier positioned on an adjacent surface of the liner. However, thereader need not be located on or near a container.

Depending on the type of identifier and reader system used, the readercan be positioned on another portion of the sorting and disposal device.In some embodiments, the reader may not even be located on or within thesorting and disposal device. However, if an optical reader is used, thepath from the readable identifier of the liner to the reader can beadvantageously free and unobstructed. Alternatively, if other types ofidentifier systems are used, such as, for example, an RFID tag andreader, the identifier may not be visible to the reader.

In other embodiments, the liners may not include a machine-readableidentifier. Thus, a system can be configured to receive identifyinginformation regarding a liner through a user's manual input. Forexample, a user can enter identifying information about a liner and/orthe container into which the liner is placed using a data entry device(e.g., keypad, handheld, etc.).

A sorting and disposal system can be configured so that only a specifictype of container can be positioned within certain bays or receivinglocations. For example, one or more slots of the system can beconfigured to receive containers that are associated with particulartypes of waste (e.g., sharps, infectious, toxic pharmaceutical, etc.).As discussed, in other embodiments, the containers can be “hot-swapped,”whereby the system can automatically detect the type of container placedwithin a bay using one or more container identifiers. Alternatively, auser can manually assign a waste type to a particular container once acontainer has been positioned within a bay.

Consequently, waste containers can be configured to receive only certaintypes of liners. For example, a container designated for infectiouswaste can be configured to receive waste items only if a liner placedtherein is also designated to receive infectious waste. Thus, a redcontainer which is designated and configured to receive hazardous wasteitems may require a red liner which is similarly designated andconfigured to receive the same type of hazardous waste.

Further, a container can be configured to receive an undesignated linerwhich has certain desired characteristics. For instance, a containerdesignated to accept radioactive waste can receive a liner having therequisite properties and characteristics for handling such waste, eventhough the liner may not be strictly labeled as a radioactive wasteliner. Such safeguards help ensure that waste items can be appropriatelystored, transported and otherwise handled following disposal.

In some embodiments, the properties of a liner may be used to determinewhether the liner can be positioned within a container cavity. Asdiscussed, the liner type and/or its properties can be automaticallydetected by a sorting system using a machine-readable identifier.Alternatively, such information regarding a liner can be manuallyentered into a sorting system by a user. Therefore, a particular wastecontainer may be capable of receiving two or more different types ofliners, each of which can satisfy certain minimum thresholdrequirements.

If an undesirable or unsuitable type of liner is positioned within acontainer, the sorting and disposal system can be configured to denyaccess to that container so that waste items are not deposited therein.In some embodiments, the system can be configured to notify a user thata container does not have a suitable liner. Further, the system candirect a user to another disposal station that is properly configured toreceive a particular waste item.

One or more containers of a sorting and disposal system may beundesignated with respect to the type of waste they may receive.Depending on the container properties and/or users' preferences, suchcontainers can be configured to receive one or more types of waste,either with or without a liner. By placing a liner within such anundesignated container, the container-liner combination can beeffectively assigned the designation of the liner. In embodiments wherethe liner includes a machine-readable identifier, the container-linercombination can automatically assume the designation of the liner. Thus,liners may be hot swapped into one or more suitable designated orundesignated containers of a sorting and disposal system. Alternatively,a user can manually inform the system of the type of liner beinginserted into a container.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to limit or restrict theplacement of a liner into a particular container. For instance, if anundesignated container had previously housed a liner configured toreceive one type of waste, it may be unsafe or undesirable to allow thesame container to house a liner configured to receive a different typeof waste. Thus, the system can track the waste disposal patterns overtime to prevent undesirable placement or repositioning. The sorting anddisposal system can alert a user of such events by providing a messageon a user interface device (e.g., display), sounding an alarm or thelike. In addition to or in lieu of alerting a user, the system can beconfigured to prevent the further disposal of waste items into certainliner-container combinations.

For example, in one embodiment, a waste sorting method comprisesproviding at least a first and second container (or compartment) whereinthe first container comprises a first container interface, and thesecond container comprises a second container interface. At least twoliners are also provided, each having its own interface. The first linerinterface is able to match or pair with the first container interface,but not with the second container interface. Likewise, the second linerinterface is operable to pair with the second container interface butnot with the first container interface. When a liner is placed in ornear the container (or compartment), the system determines whether ornot the proper liner and container have matched up correctly. Afterreceiving information regarding a waste item to be discarded, the systemwill only permit access to the container if the correct liner has beenplaced in it. If the system determines that the wrong liner is in thecontainer, the system will not allow that container to accept waste.Optionally, the system is configured to signal a user upon determiningthat the proper liner is absent or improperly properly placed.

Liners can be color-coded or otherwise marked to enable users and otherswho might come into contact with the liners to easily identify them. Inaddition, such color coding can be used as part of the system'sautomatic machine-readable identification system. As discussed,according to some embodiments, the liners can be color-coded withstandardized colors or color schemes depending on the particular wastethey are configured to receive. Alternatively, a facility may customizethe color coding or other identification scheme according to its ownrequirements and/or preferences. Moreover, a user can include additionallabels, patterns or other markings on the liners. For example, linerscan comprise warning symbols (e.g., for internal use by facility, tosatisfy DOT and/or EPA requirements, etc.), instruction labels,informational labels and the like. In one embodiment, each wastecontainer is a certain color, and for those containers that use liners,the liners would be the same color as its corresponding container. Thiswould enable quick visual matching of the container with its liner. Inaddition, in some embodiments, the color-coding system will accompanyanother “matching” system, such as a machine-readable system or amechanical matching system. By way of example, a system comprising blue,red, and green receptacles is provided. The blue container has noseparate liner. The red and green containers comprise separate liners.When a user approaches the containers to remove the red and green linersfor disposal, the user will understand that a new red liner should beplaced in the red container and a new green liner should be placed inthe green container. In the event that the user makes an error and triesto place the green liner in the red container, the liner will either notfit properly in the container or the user will be notified in some otherway that the liner has been improperly placed.

In other embodiments, the system can be configured to track and collectwaste data regarding discarded items. Such data can then be used togenerate labels (e.g., adhesive labels) for the liners. The labels mayalso include optional serialization that would permit tracking of thewaste items placed into a specific liner. Consequently, a liner canlater be identified and/or tracked using its serial number or otheridentifying information. Further, information collected by a sorting anddisposal system can be used to print a manifest or label that providesadditional information regarding discarded waste situated within aparticular liner. For example, the manifest or label can provideinformation describing the contents of a given liner, the dates duringwhich the waste was collected, the name of the facility where the wastewas collected, the weight or volume of waste and the like. This can beespecially helpful since regulatory authorities often require a manifestto be placed on waste containers. The liner may be tracked at any pointduring insertion, use or transport. As with the liner, the container mayalso be tracked.

Further, the containers and liners may comprise one or more additivesthat help to treat, neutralize or otherwise counteract the effects ofthe waste materials contained therein. Such substances can be placedwithin a liner before the liner is positioned within a waste sorting anddisposal station. Alternatively or additionally, one or more substancescan be inserted into the liner after the liner has been installed in orafter it has been removed from the waste station.

The use of liners can greatly expand the flexibility of several types ofwaste and trash sorting and disposal systems (e.g., a medical waste orother waste system). For example, hot-swappable liners can be insertedand removed from hard-bodied stand alone containers or compartments,permitting a user to easily customize a waste sorting and disposalsystem. Further, users may benefit from cost savings resulting from theuse of liners rather than containers. In some embodiments, thin flexiblecollapsible liners can be less expensive than other types of hard-bodiedcontainers. In addition, using liners may make it less expensive tooperate and maintain a waste sorting and disposal system or device. Forexample, the time and effort expended to clean, sterilize, treat andotherwise maintain a reusable container can be reduced or eliminated. Inaddition, subsequent handling, storage, transport, waste treatment andother steps can be facilitated by the use of certain liners, therebyreducing the overall environmental impact. Certain liners can beequipped or encoded with waste category keys that correspond to specificrecycling categories in order to further facilitate environmentalconservation and preservation.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method of using adisposable liner within a waste receptacle. In one aspect, the methodcomprises providing a liner with one or more identification keysdefining a category of waste items that is acceptable for placement inthe liner. A waste receptacle adapted to contain or hold said liner isalso provided. The receptacle comprises a reader that is reads theidentification key of the liner. After reading the key, the wastereceptacle automatically adopts the waste category of the liner. Abarcode reader or other reader reads information (such as a barcode) ona specific waste item and determining whether the waste item belongs tothe waste category associated with the waste receptacle. Thedetermination may be based on comparing the waste item with like itemsin a waste classification database. If the system determines that thewaste item belongs to the waste category associated with the wastereceptacle, the system permits access to the receptacle, therebypermitting access to the liner. Thus, in some embodiments, thecompartments of a waste sorting system are “blank” and only adopt awaste category after receiving information from the liner. In otherembodiments, the waste category of the compartment is predetermined, andthe system is configured to operate only if the proper liner iscorrectly matched with its corresponding compartment.

Although certain embodiments and examples have been described herein, itwill be understood by those skilled in the art that many aspects of themethods and devices shown and described in the present disclosure may bedifferently combined and/or modified to form still further embodiments.Additionally, it will be recognized that the methods described hereinmay be practiced using any device suitable for performing the recitedsteps. Moreover, the methods steps need not be practiced in any givenorder in some embodiments. Such alternative embodiments and/or uses ofthe methods and devices described above and obvious modifications andequivalents thereof are intended to be within the scope of the presentdisclosure. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventionshould not be limited by the particular embodiments described above, butshould be determined by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

1. A waste system comprising: a plurality of compartments, eachcompartment configured to receive a removable liner; a movable lidassociated with each of said compartments, wherein the movable lid ismovable to an open position and a closed position; a plurality ofremovable liners configured to be placed within the compartments,wherein each of the removable liners has an opening to receive waste;wherein each of the removable liners comprises a machine readable keythat corresponds to a waste category; a control system configured todetermine the waste category associated with the liner based on saidmachine readable key; a waste item identification device configured toreceive information regarding a waste item; wherein the control systemis configured to assign the waste item to a waste category based on theinformation obtained from the waste item identification device; whereinthe control system is further configured to identify the appropriatecompartment for receiving the waste item by associating the wastecategory of the waste item with the waste category of the liner in theappropriate compartment; and wherein the control system is furtherconfigured to allow the movable lid associated with the appropriatecompartment to move to the open position.
 2. The liner of claim 1,wherein the liner comprises polypropylene and has a thickness of about 2to 6 mil.
 3. The liner of claim 1, wherein the liner comprises apolymeric material.
 4. The liner of claim 1, wherein the liner comprisesa flexible material.
 5. The liner of claim 1, wherein themachine-readable key comprises an RFID tag.
 6. The liner of claim 1,wherein the machine-readable key is optically-readable.
 7. The liner ofclaim 1, wherein the machine-readable key comprises a color.
 8. Theliner of claim 1, wherein the machine-readable key comprises analphanumeric pattern.
 9. The liner of claim 1, wherein themachine-readable key a graphical pattern.
 10. The liner of claim 1,wherein the liner has substantially the same shape as the compartmentinto which the liner is configured to be placed.
 11. The liner of claim1, wherein the at least one of the walls of the liner comprises aprotrusion member, said protrusion member configured to contact at leasta portion of the compartment.
 12. The liner of claim 11, wherein theprotrusion member is a flange.
 13. The liner of claim 1, wherein atleast one of the walls of the liner is substantially transparent. 14.The liner of claim 1, wherein at least one wall of the liner furthercomprises a viewing window configured to permit a user to visuallydetermine a contents of the liner.
 15. The liner of claim 1, wherein theliner is configured to interface with a level sensor.
 16. The liner ofclaim 1, further comprising a sealing member, the sealing memberconfigured to maintain the opening of the liner in a closed position.17. The liner of claim 16, wherein the sealing member comprises at leastone adhesive strip.
 18. A waste system comprising: a first and secondcompartment, each compartment configured to receive a liner; a movablelid associated with each compartment, wherein the movable lid is movableto an open position and a closed position; a first liner configured tobe placed within the first compartment; a second configured to be placedwithin the second compartment; wherein each of the removable liners hasan opening to receive waste; wherein each of the removable linerscomprises a machine readable key that corresponds to a waste category;wherein each of the compartments comprises a reader configured to readthe machine readable key of the liner; wherein the compartment isconfigured to adopt the waste category of the liner; a waste itemidentification device configured to receive information regarding awaste item; a control system configured to assign the waste item to awaste category based on the information obtained from the waste itemidentification device; wherein the control system is further configuredto identify the appropriate compartment for receiving the waste item bymatching the waste category of the waste item with the waste category ofthe compartment; and wherein the control system is further configured toallow the movable lid associated with the appropriate compartment tomove to the open position.
 19. A waste sorting system comprising: aplurality of compartments, each having an opening; a disposable linercomprising a machine readable barcode; wherein the barcode is associatedwith a waste category; wherein the liner is configured for removableplacement within one of said compartments; and a barcode reader thatreads the barcode, thereby determining the waste category of the liner,and communicates said waste category to a user.
 20. A liner for use in awaste sorting system, the liner comprising: a plurality of wallsdefining an internal space; an opening configured to provide access tothe internal space; and an RFID tag coupled to or integral with theliner, wherein the RFID tag is configured to identify a type of wastethat the liner should receive; and wherein the liner is configured forremovable placement within an interior cavity of a container.